Vegan-Friendly High Blood Pressure Medications (ACE Inhibitors & ARBs)
- Frank Son, PharmD
- Apr 1, 2022
- 3 min read
Updated: 6 days ago
Hypertension is the leading risk factor for cardiovascular disease, the main cause of global mortality. Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers (ARBs) are first-line treatment options for the treatment of high blood pressure. For information on animal-free ACE inhibitors and ARBs - contact our medical information team!
Suboptimal blood pressure control is a common attribute of:
Cardiovascular Disease:
55% of ischemic heart disease
58% of other cardiovascular diseases (heart failure, peripheral arterial disease)
Cerebrovascular disease:
58% of hemorrhagic strokes
50% of ischemic strokes
Kidney function decline
What is Hypertension?
Normal blood pressure is categorized by a systolic pressure (pumping pressure) below 120 mm Hg and a diastolic pressure (filling pressure) below 80 mm Hg. Hypertension is diagnosed when blood pressure is consistently measured with a systolic reading greater than or equal to 130 and/or a diastolic reading greater than or equal to 80 mm Hg.
Treatment of Hypertension
It is important to note that the treatment of hypertension should involve lifestyle modifications in addition to blood pressure-lowering medications such as ACE inhibitors and ARBs.
Lifestyle Modifications
Dietary Salt Restriction
Weight Loss
Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet: a diet high in vegetables, fruits, low-fat dairy products, whole grains, poultry, fish, nuts, and low in sweets, and red meats.
Regular Exercise
Decrease Alcohol Intake
Smoking cessation
Kidney Protection from ACEIs and ARBs
ACE inhibitors and ARBs decrease blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels. This vascular relaxation decreases the pressure in the blood vessels of the kidneys, improving blood flow and kidney function. ACE inhibitors and ARBs also help to prevent protein from leaking into urine and improve sodium excretion, aiding normal kidney function. These kidney protective effects are notably beneficial in patients with congestive heart failure and diabetes.
Possible Side Effects of ACE Inhibitors and ARBs
Cough (ACE inhibitors only)
Hyperkalemia: High Potassium Levels
Angioedema: Swelling beneath the skin's surface, typically appearing around the face, lips, tongue, throat, or extremities
Avoid ACE Inhibitors and ARBs in Pregnancy
According to the American Heart Association (AHA), the use of ACE inhibitors and ARBs is not recommended in pregnant women as the medications may cause fetal harm. Complications include fetal kidney impairment, oligohydramnios, and death. Studies show that these complications occurred more frequently when ACE inhibitors or ARBs were used during the second and third trimester or the entire pregnancy.
Conclusion
Although many brand name ACE inhibitors and ARBs contain animal-derived ingredients, we do not discourage the use of potentially life-saving medications which may not be animal-free. The adoption of a vegan or vegetarian diet can help lower blood pressure.
To ensure products contain no animal-derived ingredients or by-products, we have either certified or verified each product on our online marketplace and blog posts. For product verification, we conduct independent research and collaborate with manufacturers to confirm the source of each active and inactive ingredient. Certified products undergo pharmacist ingredient reviews similar to product verification, but also inspection of the manufacturing process and laboratory testing for animal derivatives.
Co-authored by: Inderveer Chahal, Aurash Nicholas Sadeghi, Onel Isha, Hae Ji Shin
Disclaimer: The product and/or information provided on Pill Clarity is of a general nature and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not lab test the products to confirm that they are free from animal ingredients, and it is possible that the formulation and ingredients could have changed. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or product. The information provided in this post is accurate and up to date as of the date it was written. However, please note that circumstances and facts may change over time, and new information may become available that could alter the accuracy or relevance of the content. We encourage readers to verify and cross-reference any information provided here with trusted sources or consult relevant professionals for the most current and accurate updates.
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Hi, l am allergic to animal products including, all dairy, eggs and seafood as well as alcohols, garlic and raw onions. Needing an alternative to losartan potassium. Please advise.
Thanks