ABSTRACT
The extensive network of blood flow is initiated through the vasculature that extends between the heart and the peripheral tissues. The vasculature is divided into a pulmonary circuit, which transports blood through the gas exchange surfaces of the lungs, and a systemic circuit, which carries blood throughout the rest of the body. Each cardiac contraction cycle consists of an orchestrated series of events that generate the contraction of the cardiac muscle. Normal electrophysiological properties of cardiac muscles contribute to the coordinated action of the atria and ventricles. The functionality of heart muscle, including the conductivity and contractility of cardiac muscle cells, is regulated through membrane transport of various ions, which in turn, forms the basis of an action potential. Hypotension is the most common manifestation in patients with Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme inhibitor overdoses. Adverse effects reported at therapeutic doses include first-dose hypotension, headache, cough, hyperkalemia, dermatitis, renal dysfunction, and angioedema.
