Near fatal angioedema associated with captopril.

Two markedly hypertensive patients in their 70s both had been on captopril for months when they each developed life threatening angioedema. Their families and physicians responded promptly and effectively in saving their lives with one patient receiving tracheotomy and the other 24 h of intensive care with adrenaline, hydrocortisone and antihistamines. Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors are not without their significant risks and should not be used when less dangerous but equally efficacious medication is available.