Should RAAS inhibition be maximized in CKD patients?
Yes, RAAS inhibition should be maximized in CKD patients. Studies have shown that RAAS inhibition can not only lower blood pressure, but also protect CKD patients from further decline in kidney function. A prospective study by Hou et al. indicated that those who had urine albumin levels lowered without a significant decrease in blood pressure had some renoprotection, while those whose blood pressure was lowered without lowering of urine albumin did not have this benefit. Therefore, it is important to monitor the reduction in urine albumin excretion when using RAAS inhibitors to maximize renoprotection.