Sudden death: ACE inhibitors and beta-blockers

Sudden death is extremely common in patients suffering from cardiovascular diseases. At least one third of those with hypertension and probably about half of those who survive a myocardial infarction or suffer from cardiac failure who die in a clinical trial, die suddenly. Beta-blockers reduce the risk of sudden death in patients with cardiovascular disease, particularly in those who have had a myocardial infarction or heart failure. ACE inhibitors are perhaps less effective. Other cardiovascular drugs have not been shown to reduce the risk of sudden death.