Which medication class is commonly used to manage hypertension in pediatric patients with coarctation of the aorta?

In managing hypertension in pediatric patients with coarctation of the aorta, ACE inhibitors are frequently the preferred choice. This class of medication works by inhibiting the angiotensin-converting enzyme, leading to vasodilation and decreased blood pressure. They also benefit these patients by promoting renal function and helping to alleviate heart workload, which can be particularly important given the increased left ventricular afterload associated with coarctation.

The effectiveness of ACE inhibitors in reducing systemic vascular resistance makes them particularly suitable for patients who may have elevated blood pressure due to the constricted aorta. In addition to their blood pressure-lowering effects, ACE inhibitors also provide cardiovascular protection, further supporting their use in this specific patient population.

While other classes of medications, such as calcium channel blockers, beta-blockers, and diuretics, can play roles in hypertension management, they may not address the specific hemodynamic challenges posed by coarctation of the aorta as effectively as ACE inhibitors. For example, while beta-blockers may reduce heart rate and contractility, they do not specifically target the underlying vascular resistance, which is critical in coarctation management. Thus, ACE inhibitors are a well-established, first-line treatment for hypertension in these pediatric