[The metabolic effects of the angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors in experimental diabetes mellitus].

We have studied the effects exerted by the angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEI) Enalapril upon the glycemic profile in diabetic rats. With respect to the subacute character of our experiment (15 days), the following parameters have been recorded: diuresis, glycosuria, ketonuria and glycemia. In the diabetic rats treated with ACEI we haven noted slight, statistically insignificant improvements in glycosuria and glycemia, compared to the untreated diabetic subjects. Conversely, a statistically significant improvement of ketonuria has been noted in the diabetic rats receiving ACEI compared to the untreated ones. The short-term administration of ACEI in experimental diabetes mellitus acutely improves the glycemic profile, probably by the amelioration of the tissular sensitivity to insulin.