This CME lecture explores the pharmacological and clinical foundations of ACE inhibitors (ACEIs) in managing cardiovascular disease. Drawing from Goodman & Gilman’s Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics (13th Edition), Dr. Mobeen Syed reviews how ACE inhibition improves outcomes in left ventricular systolic dysfunction, acute myocardial infarction, and high-risk vascular patients.

Key mechanisms such as afterload reduction, improved cardiac output, reversal of remodeling, renal protection, and neurohormonal modulation will be discussed alongside pivotal clinical trials that shaped current guideline recommendations.

The session provides clinicians with a mechanistic understanding that translates directly into improved patient management strategies in heart failure and cardiovascular risk reduction.

🎯 Learning Objectives
By the end of this lecture, participants should be able to:
Explain the pharmacologic basis of ACE inhibition and its hemodynamic effects in left ventricular systolic dysfunction.
Identify the clinical evidence supporting ACE inhibitor use in both symptomatic and asymptomatic patients with systolic heart failure.
Describe how ACE inhibition modifies cardiac remodeling and reduces preload, afterload, and wall stress.
Discuss the role of ACE inhibitors in the acute and long-term management of myocardial infarction.
Summarize the benefits of ACE inhibition in high-risk cardiovascular patients, including those with diabetes and vascular disease.
Apply current evidence to select appropriate patients for ACE inhibitor therapy and recognize contraindications such as cardiogenic shock or severe hypotension.