Beta Blockers Vs. Ace Inhibitors With Diabetes

Beta blockers and ACE (Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme) Inhibitors are both commonly prescribed when high blood pressure is present, and conventional therapies such as diet and exercise are not effective. Diabetics experience high blood pressure either through vascular or kidney secretions and each type of drug is designed for a specific circumstance.

Two Different Mechanisms, Same Result

• In diabetes there are two different organ systems that can cause high blood pressure (HPB). One type starts starts in the adrenal glands. The other is based in the kidney and is caused by an enzyme.

Beta Blockers

• Beta blockers stop production of norepinephrine and epinephrine in the adrenal glands. By stopping this secretion, blood pressure is lowered and improved circulatory response is seen and excess fluids are secreted.

ACE Inhibitors

• In diabetes ACE (Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme) restricts blood flow by squeezing the tiny vessels and increasing blood pressure, causing damage to the kidney itself. An ACE inhibitor stops the secretion of the enzyme and allows the kidney vessels to open and blood to flow more easily.

Used Separately

• Rarely, if ever, are both drugs used together. The possibility of lowering blood pressure to dangerous hypotensive levels is great. Hypotension, or too low blood pressure can mean cardiac compromise and lack of oxygen to the brain.

Drug Interactions

• ACE inhibitors cause an increase in potassium blood levels, which can cause arrhythmias, such as ventricular fibrillation or asystole, according to MediciNet. It is cautioned that the use of aspirin can reduce the effectiveness of an ACE inhibitor. According to MediceNet, beta blockers are not to be used with CHF (congestive heart failure) medications, other diuretics, calcium supplements, cold remedies or herbal St. John's wort. The mixing of prescription drugs and other remedies should be monitored by a physician.