AHRQ's publication compares medications

WASHINGTON, Aug. 18 (UPI) -- Six Spanish-language publications from the U.S. government help patients compare treatments for common illnesses such as heart disease, officials say.

The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality publications summarize the benefits and risks of the medications ACE Inhibitors, or angiotensin-converting enzyme, and ARBs or angiotensin II receptor blockers.

The medications help reduce blood pressure in patients who often take other heart-related medications such as aspirin, blood thinners or cholesterol-lowering drugs, officials of the Health and Human Resources' Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality say.

"This new Spanish-language guide on heart medications is part of AHRQ's ongoing effort to give Hispanics the knowledge they need to take a greater role in their healthcare," AHRQ Director Dr. Carolyn M. Clancy says in a statement. "All patients should have access to the best information available so they can work with their doctor to identify the best treatment for them."

The AHRQ offers 23 publications in Spanish that compare treatments for heart and vascular system conditions, diabetes, cancer, bone and joint-related conditions, pregnancy, mental health and digestive system ailments, Clancy says.