What is the recommended first-line treatment for hypertension in patients with coronary artery disease?

The recommended first-line treatment for hypertension in patients with coronary artery disease is ACE inhibitors. This class of medication provides multiple benefits that make it particularly suitable for patients with this condition.

ACE inhibitors have been shown to improve cardiovascular outcomes in patients with coronary artery disease by reducing the risk of heart failure, myocardial infarction, and stroke. They work by inhibiting the angiotensin-converting enzyme, leading to vasodilation, reduced blood pressure, and decreased workload on the heart. Additionally, they play a role in preventing further remodeling of the heart muscle, which can occur after ischemic events.

In patients with coronary artery disease, the use of ACE inhibitors is backed by clinical guidelines and evidence that illustrate their effectiveness in managing hypertension while also providing protective effects on cardiovascular health.

While beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and diuretics can also be effective for managing hypertension, they do not offer the same array of cardioprotective benefits specifically associated with coronary artery disease as ACE inhibitors do, making them less preferable as the first-line treatment in this scenario.