Citation

Sumukadas D, Band M, Miller S, Cvoro V, Witham M, Struthers A, McConnachie A, Lloyd SM, McMurdo M. J. Gerontol. A Biol. Sci. Med. Sci. 2014; 69(6): 736-743.

Affiliation

Mailbox 1, Ageing & Health, Cardiovascular & Diabetes Medicine, Ninewells Hospital & Medical School, Dundee DD1 9SY, UK. d.sumukadas@dundee.ac.uk.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2014, Gerontological Society of America)

DOI

10.1093/gerona/glt142

PMID

24201696

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Loss of muscle mass and strength with ageing is a major cause for falls, disability, and morbidity in older people. Previous studies have found that angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEi) may improve physical function in older people. It is unclear whether ACEi provide additional benefit when added to a standard exercise training program. We examined the effects of ACEi therapy on physical function in older people undergoing exercise training. METHODS: Community-dwelling people aged ≥65 years with functional impairment were recruited through general (family) practices. All participants received progressive exercise training. Participants were randomized to receive either 4 mg perindopril or matching placebo daily for 20 weeks. The primary outcome was between-group change in 6-minute walk distance from baseline to 20 weeks. Secondary outcomes included changes in Short Physical Performance Battery, handgrip and quadriceps strength, self-reported quality of life using the EQ-5D, and functional impairment measured using the Functional Limitations Profile. RESULTS: A total of 170 participants (n = 86 perindopril, n = 84 placebo) were randomized. Mean age was 75.7 (standard deviation [SD] 6.8) years. Baseline 6-minute walk distance was 306 m (SD 99). Both groups increased their walk distance (by 29.6 m perindopril, 36.4 m placebo group) at 20 weeks, but there was no statistically significant treatment effect between groups (-8.6m [95% confidence interval: -30.1, 12.9], p = .43). No statistically significant treatment effects were observed between groups for the secondary outcomes. Adverse events leading to withdrawal were few (n = 0 perindopril, n = 4 placebo).Interpretation.ACE inhibitors did not enhance the effect of exercise training on physical function in functionally impaired older people.

Language: en