EFFECTS OF ANTIHYPERTENSIVES ON THE PRESERVATION OF RENAL FUNCTION IN PACIENTS WITH CHRONIC KIDNEY DISEASE

Abstract

Hypertension (HT), a chronic systemic disease that is extremely prevalent in Brazil, is one of the main risk factors for the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD), a silent disease with high morbidity and mortality. Strict control of blood pressure is part of the therapeutic goals of both conditions and is essential to slow the worsening of renal function and reduce cardiovascular risks. Among the most indicated treatments currently are antihypertensives, renin-angiotensin system (RAS) inhibitors, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), which in addition to treating HT are widely recommended for reducing proteinuria and protecting the kidneys. This study carried out a literature review seeking the relationship between antihypertensives and the preservation of renal function, since chronic kidney patients often have comorbidities such as HT. The results demonstrated that the use of ACE inhibitors and ARBs was effective in reducing proteinuria, especially when associated with loop diuretics in advanced stages of the disease. Other classes, such as aldosterone antagonists and calcium channel blockers, may also be beneficial, although they have limitations. The findings reinforce that adequate treatment of hypertension is essential to preserve renal function and delay the progression of CKD.