Delapril (INN, also known as alindapril) is an ACE inhibitor used as an antihypertensive drug[1] in some European and Asian countries but not in America.[2] It is taken orally, available in 15 mg and 30 mg tablets.[3]
Delapril is a prodrug; it is converted into two active metabolites, 5-hydroxy delapril diacid and delapril diacid. These metabolites bind completely to and inhibit angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), hence blocking angiotensin I to angiotensin II conversion. The resulting vasodilation prevents the vasoconstrictive effects of angiotensin II. Angiotensin II-induced aldosterone secretion by the adrenal cortex is also decreased by Delapril, leading to increases in excretion of sodium and therefore increases water outflow.[4]