Managing diabetic nephropathy: recent studies.
OBJECTIVE
This review summarizes recent studies designed to identify improved treatments for diabetic nephropathy.


RESULTS
Recent data support the concept that angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor blockers have similar renoprotective effects. Aggressive blockade of the renin-angiotensin system appears to have benefits beyond those achieved with conventional doses of single agents. Dual blockade using angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor blockers is effective. Aldosterone receptor antagonists may potentiate the effect of these two classes of compounds. It remains unclear, however, whether maximum benefit can be obtained by the combination of angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor blockers or aldosterone receptor antagonists as compared to larger doses of single agents. Not enough data are available currently to recommend thiazolidinedione hypoglycemic agents for renal protection. Trials are being conducted with several new classes of agents.


CONCLUSIONS
Evidence from short-term studies favors aggressive blockade of the renin-angiotensin system. Long-term studies, however, remain to be performed. A multifactorial approach that incorporates established interventions affords our best means to retard the progression of diabetic nephropathy.
Department of Medicine and Nephrology, Stanford University and VA Palo Alto HCS, Stanford, California 93401, USA.
Yiming Z
YZ
Lit
Timothy
T
Meyer
D000806:Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D002121:Calcium Channel Blockers / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D003928:Diabetic Nephropathies / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000401:mortality; D004232:Diuretics / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D004359:Drug Therapy, Combination; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007677:Kidney Function Tests; D008297:Male; D011379:Prognosis; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; D018570:Risk Assessment; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D015996:Survival Rate; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D000806:Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors; D002121:Calcium Channel Blockers; D004232:Diuretics