El Centro Regional Medical Center ( ECRMC ) and the University of California San Diego School of Medicine will collaborate on a trial for COVID-19 treatment using ACE inhibitors.

The trial will study whether ACE inhibitors , used for treatment of high blood pressure , heart failure and diabetic kidney disease , might also reduce the severity of COVID-19 infections , lowering ICU admissions and the need to use mechanical ventilators. The full trial will be coordinated by UC San Diego and will be done at sites throughout the United States. Approximately 560 participants will be recruited to participate in the randomized , double-blind and placebo-controlled clinical trial. A minimum of 30 ECRMC patients will participate. The study is expected to last a year. Prospective patient participants are over the age of 18 and presenting in the emergency room or currently hospitalized. 

ECRMC stated that it is important to note that these medical trials are conducted by professionals in a controlled environment. The medications will be administered to participants by physicians who will monitor and evaluate the patients to ensure their safety.