What role do ACE inhibitors and ARBs play in hypertension management for renal disease?

ACE inhibitors and ARBs play a crucial role in managing hypertension, particularly in patients with renal disease, by helping to decrease the progression of renal damage. These agents work primarily by blocking the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), which is often overactive in patients with hypertension and renal impairment. By inhibiting this system, they help to reduce blood pressure and, importantly, decrease the intraglomerular pressure in the kidneys. This protective effect can slow the progression of chronic kidney disease by reducing the strain on nephrons and preventing further damage that can arise from sustained high blood pressure and high levels of protein excretion.

The cardiovascular benefits of ACE inhibitors and ARBs make them particularly valuable in hypertensive patients with diabetes and other causes of renal impairment, as they also have a role in proteinuria reduction, which is a significant marker of kidney health. Overall, this class of medication has shown significant benefits in long-term renal outcomes, effectively safeguarding the kidneys from further dysfunction and helping to maintain stable renal function.