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Updated: Jul 25, 2025

A Modified Two Kidney One Clip Mouse Model of Renin Regulation in Renal Artery Stenosis
Published on: October 26, 2020
[Classical nephroprotection: Renin angiotensin aldosterone system inhibitors]
M I Egocheaga1, Y Drak2, V Otero3
1Centro de salud Isla de Oza, Madrid, España.
Insights
Renin angiotensin aldosterone system (RAAS) inhibitors are crucial for treating chronic kidney disease (CKD) and reducing albuminuria. Careful dosing and monitoring are essential to manage side effects like hyperkalemia.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Nephrology
- Pharmacology
Context:
- The renin angiotensin aldosterone system (RAAS) plays a key role in hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and kidney disease.
- RAAS inhibitors are standard treatments for chronic kidney disease (CKD).
Purpose:
- To review the role of RAAS inhibitors in managing CKD and associated cardiovascular risks.
- To highlight the benefits and controversies surrounding RAAS inhibitor use in specific CKD populations.
Summary:
- Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE inhibitors) and angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) reduce albuminuria and slow CKD progression in diabetic and non-diabetic patients.
- RAAS inhibitors are recommended for hypertension in CKD patients with albuminuria, offering cardiovascular benefits beyond blood pressure reduction.
- Use in non-proteinuric nephropathy and advanced CKD requires careful consideration, and double RAAS blockade is contraindicated. Dose titration and side effect management, particularly hyperkalemia, are critical.
Impact:
- Provides guidance on optimal RAAS inhibitor therapy for CKD patients.
- Emphasizes the importance of individualized treatment strategies to maximize benefits and minimize risks.
- Informs clinical practice regarding the appropriate use of RAAS inhibitors in diverse CKD scenarios.
Abstract:
The role of the renin angiotensin aldosterone system (RAAS) in the pathophysiology of hypertension, cardiovascular disease and kidney disease has been known for years. RAAS inhibitors have been the mainstay of chronic kidney disease (CKD) treatment. Studies have shown that therapy with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE inhibitors) or angiotensinII receptor blockers (ARBs) reduce the excretion of albuminuria and slow the progression of kidney disease in patients with and without diabetes. In clinical practice, RAAS inhibitors are recommended as the antihypertensive of choice in patients with CKD and albuminuria with or without diabetes. In addition, they have demonstrated cardiovascular benefits beyond blood pressure control. The use of RAAS inhibitors in non-proteinuric nephropathy and advanced CKD is not without controversy. Double blockade of the RAAS is contraindicated. On the other hand, it is essential to know how to titrate doses and avoid side effects, mainly hyperkalaemia.
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