Skip to content

Diabetic Kidney Disease and ACE Inhibitors: their role in treatment and additional information

Diabetic Kidney Disease and ACE Inhibitors: Their Role and Additional Insights

Diabetic Kidney Disease and ACE Inhibitors: Their Beneficial Role and Additional Information
Diabetic Kidney Disease and ACE Inhibitors: Their Beneficial Role and Additional Information

Diabetic Kidney Disease and ACE Inhibitors: their role in treatment and additional information

In the management of diabetic nephropathy, a common complication of diabetes that affects the kidneys, ACE inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) have proven to be a crucial part of the treatment strategy. These medications are recommended as first-line therapies to slow the progression of kidney damage and reduce albuminuria, a condition indicating the kidneys are not working properly.

Diabetic nephropathy is the most common cause of nephrotic syndrome in the United States and is responsible for around 80% of cases of end-stage kidney disease. People with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing this type of kidney disease, especially if they have other risk factors such as smoking, poor diabetes management, high salt intake, lack of physical activity, overweight or obesity, heart disease, a family history of kidney disease, and uncontrolled blood pressure.

To reduce the risk of progression of diabetic kidney disease (DKD), it is essential to maintain strict blood pressure and glycemic control, along with lifestyle interventions such as sodium restriction, weight management, and glycemic control with newer agents like SGLT2 inhibitors and GLP-1 receptor agonists.

ACE inhibitors, along with diuretics and nondihydropyridine calcium channel blockers, are commonly used in the treatment of DKD. These medications help manage blood pressure in those with diabetes and can also help correct vascular abnormalities related to the disease. However, it's important to note that ACE inhibitors are generally ineffective in reducing end-stage renal disease.

Recent guidelines emphasize the importance of guideline-concordant screening, monitoring kidney function and albuminuria, and prompt initiation of renoprotective medications to improve outcomes. The 2024 Taiwan guideline and the National Kidney Foundation also stress the importance of blood pressure management, aiming for individualized targets often below 130/80 mmHg.

Dual blockade of the renin-angiotensin system (using both ACEi and ARB together) is generally not recommended due to increased risk of adverse effects.

In conclusion, ACE inhibitors and ARBs remain the cornerstone of diabetic nephropathy treatment for their proven benefit in reducing proteinuria and delaying progression to end-stage renal disease. The integration of newer glucose-lowering agents adds further cardio-renal protection in modern multimodal therapy approaches. Individuals with diabetes are encouraged to attend annual kidney screenings and manage both their blood glucose and blood pressure to treat kidney disease effectively.

  1. Despite diabetes mellitus being a chronic disease, proper management and control can minimize the risk of developing chronic diseases like diabetic nephropathy.
  2. Diabetic nephropathy, a type of nephropathy, is often the leading cause of nephrotic syndrome and end-stage kidney disease in the United States.
  3. Science continues to publish research about diabetic nephropathy, aiming to develop new therapies and treatments for better disease management.
  4. Sleep patterns are crucial for overall health and wellness, including the management of chronic diseases like diabetic nephropathy in the workplace.
  5. Educating employees about medical conditions such as diabetic nephropathy and chronic diseases can enhance workplace wellness, fostering a better understanding of health and continued improvement.
  6. Science's progress is not limited to kidney health, as it also explores respiratory conditions, digestive health, eye health, hearing, and other areas of health and wellness.
  7. Cancers and autoimmune disorders are two common examples of diseases that negatively affect mental and men's health, skin-care, and even aging.
  8. A proper diet rich in nutrition supports eye health, contributing to overall well-being as we age.
  9. Women's health and parenting require comprehensive knowledge of topics related to weight management, cardiovascular health, and family planning.
  10. Maintaining mental health is equally important in managing conditions like diabetic nephropathy and reducing the stress that comes with its management.
  11. Beyond diabetes, other causes of kidney disease include skin conditions and neurological disorders, highlighting the complexity of this organ's function in the human body.
  12. Fitness and exercise are essential components of caring for one's health, as they can help manage weight and lower the risk of chronic diseases like diabetic nephropathy.
  13. To that end, cbd, derived from cannabis, is often used to treat various conditions, including skin-conditions and neurological-disorders, due to its potential therapeutic effects.
  14. Medicare offers coverage for treatments and therapies related to chronic diseases, making healthcare more accessible for seniors dealing with conditions like diabetic nephropathy.
  15. Sexual health is an integral part of overall health and wellness, requiring open discussion and education to manage effectively.
  16. The integration of multiple therapies and treatments can lead to effective management of conditions like diabetic nephropathy, improving the quality of life for individuals living with the disease.
  17. Lastly, as research progresses and new insights emerge, recognizing the importance of caring for different aspects of health, including kidney health, will continue to improve our collective knowledge and global health outcomes.

Read also:

    Latest