Renin angiotensin system inhibition in the older person: a review.

The efficacy and safety of rennin angiotensin system (RAS) inhibition for lowering blood pressure in older populations has been demonstrated in a number of clinical trials. Whether a patient's age influences the overall ability of these drugs to lower blood pressure and protect against progress of cardiovascular and kidney disease has been the focus of few clinical trials. Herein, the author's review the mechanism of action of the renin angiotensin cascade and then discuss the clinical evidence surrounding the use of RAS-blocking drugs in the older population.