[The effect of ramipril on metabolic, renal and cardiac function in hypertension and type II diabetes mellitus].

OBJECTIVE

To assess the effect of ramipril on indicators of glucose metabolism, incl. insulin resistance, on renal function with microalbuminuria, changes of some echocardiographic signs of hypertrophy and compliance of the left ventricle in patients with hypertension and type II diabetes mellitus.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The authors examined 32 patients with hypertension grade I and II and with diabetes type II, who had ramipril, 2.5-10 mg/day, for a period of six months. The examination before and after long-term treatment comprised basic biochemical sampling incl. concentrations of immunoreactive insulin, C-peptide and glycated haemoglobin and also complete functional examination of the kidneys, incl. microalbuminuria. Echocardiographic examination was focused on assessment of signs of hypertrophy and compliance of the left ventricle. Treatment of diabetes was not changed in the course of 6 months.

RESULTS

In addition to the anticipated drop of blood pressure a declining trend of insulin resistance was recorded, there was a significant decline of microalbuminuria and a rise of natriuresis, the left ventricle mass declined and its compliance improved.

CONCLUSION

Ramipril one of the inhibitors of angiotensin converting enzyme is an effective and useful medication for type II diabetics suffering from hypertension.