What are the benefits of using thiazides for hypertension in CKD 4 and 5 patients?
Thiazides are often one of the first 2 or 3 drugs used for BP lowering in CKD, particularly if there is edema or if ACE-Is or ARBs have already been prescribed. Thiazides are known to potentiate the effect of other antihypertensive agents, particularly ACE-Is and and may also reduce the risk of hyperkalemia. The inclusion of thiazides in fixed-dose combinations with other antihypertensives is convenient for patients and may also reduce the risk of hyperkalemia. In addition, thiazides may be beneficial in preserving BP control and antihypertensive benefit in CKD 4 and 5 patients, even with reduced GFR, as shown in small, short-term studies in humans.