Hypothesis: angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers may increase the risk of severe COVID-19
James H. Diaz
Abstract
Intravenous infusions of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) in experimental animals increase the numbers of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptors in the cardiopulmonary circulation. ACE2 receptors serve as binding sites for SARS-CoV-2 virions in the lungs. Patients who take ACEIs and ARBS may be at increased risk of severe disease outcomes due to SARS-CoV-2 infections.
Topics & Concepts
MedicineAngiotensin Receptor BlockersReceptorAngiotensin-converting enzymeRenin–angiotensin systemAngiotensin-converting enzyme 2Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)PharmacologyEnzymeSevere acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)Angiotensin IIAngiotensin receptorDiseaseInternal medicineEndocrinologyInfectious disease (medical specialty)BiochemistryBlood pressureBiologyCOVID-19 Clinical Research StudiesRenin-Angiotensin System StudiesSARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19 Research