{"id":629301,"date":"2024-08-08T12:52:05","date_gmt":"2024-08-08T16:52:05","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/?p=629301"},"modified":"2024-10-25T09:48:37","modified_gmt":"2024-10-25T13:48:37","slug":"lisinopril-and-kidney-function","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/lisinopril-and-kidney-function\/","title":{"rendered":"How does lisinopril affect your kidneys?"},"content":{"rendered":"

Lisinopril is a prescription medication commonly used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure) and heart failure. It can also improve survival after a heart attack or myocardial infarction. It is part of a class of drugs known as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. It works by relaxing the blood vessels, enhancing blood flow, and allowing the heart to pump blood more effectively.<\/span><\/p>\n

Although lisinopril is not specifically FDA-approved for treating kidney problems, it is commonly used to help protect the kidneys, especially in individuals with high blood pressure or diabetes mellitus, which can affect kidney function. It slows down kidney damage by lowering blood pressure, reducing stress on the kidneys, and blocking hormones that can worsen kidney function. <\/span><\/p>\n

Does lisinopril cause kidney damage?<\/span><\/h2>\n

Lisinopril<\/span><\/a>, like other <\/span>ACE inhibitors<\/span><\/a>, can have complex effects on kidney function. While lisinopril is often used to protect the kidneys, especially in individuals with high blood pressure or diabetes, there are instances where it may cause kidney damage. The risk is higher in people with kidney disease or other risk factors.<\/span><\/p>\n

Potential kidney damage from lisinopril is often reversible. If a patient experiences kidney problems, discontinuing the medication or lowering the dosage (under the guidance of a healthcare provider) can often lead to improvement. Monitoring kidney function regularly when starting or adjusting lisinopril is important to detect potential issues early.<\/span><\/p>\n

In addition to its effects on kidney function, <\/span>lisinopril<\/span><\/a> can increase potassium levels in the blood, causing hyperkalemia. People with certain conditions, such as heart failure, dehydration, or preexisting kidney problems, are already at higher risk for <\/span>hyperkalemia<\/span><\/a> because their kidneys may not effectively regulate potassium levels. This risk is further heightened if they take <\/span>potassium-sparing diuretics<\/span><\/a> or potassium supplements. Therefore, regular monitoring of potassium levels is required while taking lisinopril.<\/span><\/p>\n

Glomerular filtration rate<\/span><\/a> (GFR) is a test to see how well the kidneys are working. It estimates how much blood passes through the glomeruli (tiny filters in the kidneys that remove waste from blood) every minute. A lower-than-normal GFR can indicate kidney problems or damage. <\/span>ACE inhibitors<\/span><\/a> like lisinopril work in part by slowing damage to the glomeruli, which can help those with kidney disease.<\/span><\/p>\n

How does lisinopril support renal function?<\/span><\/h2>\n

ACE inhibitors like lisinopril play a crucial role in <\/span>supporting kidney function<\/span><\/a>. They work by lowering the pressure in the tiny blood vessels of the kidneys and easing blood flow through them. This helps reduce stress on the kidneys and protects them from damage. This action helps prevent the progression from microalbuminuria (small amounts of protein in the urine) to more severe proteinuria (larger amounts of protein in the urine).<\/span><\/p>\n

ACE inhibitors offer long-term protection against the development and progression of proteinuria and can stabilize kidney function, especially in individuals with impaired renal function.<\/span><\/p>\n

For patients with <\/span>chronic kidney disease<\/span><\/a> (CKD), ACE inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) are often the first-choice medications. They are more effective than placebo (inactive medicine) in reducing proteinuria and slowing the progression of kidney disease. The effectiveness of <\/span>ACE inhibitors<\/span><\/a> and ARBs in this regard is generally comparable.<\/span><\/p>\n

In cases of glomerular diseases and post-transplant glomerulonephritis (a type of kidney inflammation that can occur after a kidney transplant), ACE inhibitors or ARBs are essential treatments. They help to slow the decline in glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and reduce proteinuria. Additionally, these drugs have been found to prolong graft survival in patients with post-transplant glomerulonephritis.<\/span><\/p>\n

A common myth about ACE inhibitors and ARBs is that they are beneficial only for people with high blood pressure. This is not true. These medications can also benefit individuals with kidney disease or heart failure, even if they do not have high blood pressure. For those without high blood pressure, a lower dose may be recommended to avoid low blood pressure.<\/span><\/p>\n

Optimal dosage for kidney protection<\/span><\/h2>\n

Lisinopril dosage<\/span><\/a> varies based on several factors, including overall health, kidney function, and co-occurring medical conditions. Here are some general dosing guidelines for adults based on the prescribing information:<\/span><\/p>\n