Skin Reactions With Losartan and Enalapril in Cardiac Patients



Iraji F¹ ; Garekyaraghi M² ; Ahmadi Z³ ; Nilforoushzadeh MA⁴ ; Faghihi G¹ Show Affiliations
Source: Journal of Isfahan Medical School Published:2012

Abstract

Background: Numerous reports have been published about the skin reaction after using angiotensin II converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) such as enalapril and angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) such as losartan. However, no such investigations have been conducted to evaluate skin complications after ACEIs and ARBs intake. According to racial differences in reaction to medications and high rate prescription of theses mentioned drugs, we aimed to design the present study. Methods: This cross-sectional study was performed on hospitalized or referred patients who were taking losartan or enalapril in University Hospitals of the Isfahan University of Medical Sciences in 2008. 200 patients were randomly enrolled to the study. Findings: Skin reactions developed in 4.5% of the participants (4.5% in losartan and 5% in enalapril users). The most common skin complications were urticaria, maculopapular rashes and angioedema. The average time from taking the medication to the development of skin complications was 6.1 months, which appeared between 1-2 months from drug prescription in 88.8% of the cases. Age and gender were not associated with the development of skin reactions. Conclusion: Our results showed similar development rates of skin reactions in both groups, except for the timing which was faster for enalapril. © 2012, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences(IUMS). All rights reserved.