What type of medication might be of medium-term benefit in terminal care?

Choosing ACE inhibitors as a medium-term medication for patients in terminal care can be justified by their ability to improve quality of life and manage symptoms related to heart failure. In terminal heart failure, where palliative care is a focus, ACE inhibitors contribute by alleviating symptoms of fluid overload, reducing blood pressure, and improving cardiac output, which can enhance the patient’s comfort and overall well-being.

In advanced stages of heart failure, patients often present with poor left ventricular function and high levels of circulating neurohormones that can exacerbate their condition. ACE inhibitors work by inhibiting the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, resulting in vasodilation and reduced workload on the heart. This can be particularly important in terminal care, where the goal is to optimize the patient's condition and comfort as much as possible.

In contrast, while statins are beneficial in reducing cardiovascular events, their role in terminal care is limited, as their benefits are more pronounced in primary and secondary prevention rather than directly in symptom management. Digoxin may also be used in patients with atrial fibrillation to control heart rate; however, its benefits in sinus rhythm are less significant, especially in a terminal care context. Over-the-counter pain relievers, while useful