Which class of medication is frequently used to improve long-term outcomes in patients with systolic dysfunction?

The use of ACE inhibitors is well-supported in patients with systolic dysfunction, particularly those with heart failure. This class of medication works by inhibiting the angiotensin-converting enzyme, leading to decreased production of angiotensin II, a substance that causes blood vessels to constrict. By reducing vasoconstriction, ACE inhibitors enhance blood flow, decrease blood pressure, and ultimately reduce the workload on the heart.

Additionally, ACE inhibitors have been shown to improve long-term morbidity and mortality in patients with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction. They provide several benefits, including reversal of cardiac remodeling, improvement in cardiac output, and reduction in symptoms associated with heart failure, thereby significantly impacting long-term outcomes.

In contrast, while beta blockers also play an important role in the management of systolic dysfunction and have been associated with improved outcomes, they are often used in conjunction with ACE inhibitors. Calcium channel blockers are generally not preferred in this context, as they do not address the underlying issues of heart failure as effectively and can sometimes lead to negative outcomes. Diuretics are primarily used for symptom management by helping to relieve fluid overload but do not improve long-term outcomes on their own. Therefore, ACE inhibitors are the class of medication most recognized for their positive impact on