Should angiotensin receptor blockers be added to angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors in the treatment of heart failure?
Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors have been the cornerstone of treatment of heart failure. Angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) remain an attractive alternative in heart failure patients intolerant of ACE inhibitors. The addition of ARBs to ACE inhibitors in the context of stable heart failure may lead to additional clinical benefits. This is in contrast to heart failure complicating acute myocardial infarction, in which it does not offer any therapeutic advantage.
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