Mineralocorticoid Receptor Antagonists in Diabetic Kidney Disease: Clinical Evidence and Potential Adverse Events

Ashish Upadhyay1, Lalarukh Haider2

  • 1Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine and Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA.

Insights

Mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs) help manage diabetic kidney disease (DKD) and reduce risks of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and cardiovascular disease (CVD). This review covers their cardiorenal benefits and potential side effects.

Area of Science:

  • Nephrology
  • Cardiology
  • Endocrinology

Background:

  • Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is a primary cause of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and increases cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk.
  • Effective DKD management necessitates strategies to slow CKD and CVD progression.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the cardiorenal advantages of mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs).
  • To summarize the risks associated with steroidal and nonsteroidal MRAs, including acute kidney injury, hyperkalemia, and sexual dysfunction.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies on MRAs in DKD management.
  • Analysis of evidence regarding cardiorenal outcomes and adverse events.

Main Results:

  • MRAs, when combined with renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system blockade and SGLT2 inhibitors, reduce CKD progression and cardiovascular events.
  • Evidence on the specific risks of MRAs, such as acute kidney injury and hyperkalemia, is examined.

Conclusions:

  • MRAs offer significant cardiorenal benefits in patients with DKD.
  • Understanding and monitoring potential risks are crucial for optimizing MRA therapy in DKD.

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