Evidence before this study
- The postulated dual role of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE)
inhibitors (ACEi) and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARB) in patients
with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has created a dilemma for
clinicians.
- On the one hand, there is speculation that by upregulating ACE2,
ACEi/ARBs might increase the risk and severity of COVID-19.
- On the other hand, there is evidence that downregulation of ACE2 can
mediate acute lung injury. Further evidence is urgently needed to
guide clinicians in the use of ACEi/ARB in patients with COVID-19 with
co-morbidities.