Management of proteinuria: Blockade of the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system

Abstract

Proteinuria, in particular albuminuria, is a potentially significant modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease and the progression of kidney disease. Current treatment guidelines for albuminuria recommend a single renin–angiotensin–aldosterone inhibitor. This can be an ACE inhibitor or an angiotensin receptor antagonist. The routine use of combined renin–angiotensin–aldosterone inhibition for albuminuria is not supported by current evidence. Combination therapy is associated with higher rates of adverse events such as hyperkalaemia and progressive renal impairment.