Does valsartan affect the kidneys?
Dec 03, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Tian Hongbo
Introduction
Long-term use of valsartan may increase the renal burden and affect kidney function in cases such as impaired renal function or bilateral renal artery stenosis. However, since valsartan can reduce hypertension-induced renal perfusion and alleviate kidney damage caused by high blood pressure, thereby providing protective effects on the kidneys, it generally does not adversely affect kidney function if no signs of renal impairment occur.
Whether valsartan affects the kidneys depends on the patient's renal function and may or may not have an impact. The detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Yes
Valsartan is an antihypertensive medication commonly used clinically for mild to moderate hypertension, especially suitable for individuals who are intolerant to ACE inhibitors. Valsartan is primarily metabolized through the kidneys. In patients with pre-existing renal impairment or bilateral renal artery stenosis, long-term use of valsartan may increase the kidney's workload, potentially affecting renal function and even worsening renal insufficiency.
2. No
Given that valsartan has a relatively high safety profile and can reduce hypertensive perfusion pressure on the kidneys, thereby helping to alleviate kidney damage caused by hypertension and providing protective effects, it generally does not affect the kidneys in individuals with normal renal function and no abnormalities.
Therefore, valsartan is contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity to the drug, as well as in pregnant and breastfeeding women, to prevent adverse effects.
