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How do ARB drugs affect kidney function?

May 13, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Guang
Introduction
ARBs, or angiotensin II receptor blockers, affect kidney function in several ways, including changes in glomerular filtration rate, increases in creatinine and blood urea nitrogen levels, reduction or increase of proteinuria, electrolyte disturbances, and effects on uric acid metabolism. It is recommended to maintain a healthy lifestyle with adequate sleep, improved diet, and proper physical conditioning to support overall health.

Generally, ARB drugs, also known as angiotensin II receptor blockers, may affect kidney function in the following ways: changes in glomerular filtration rate, increased levels of creatinine and blood urea nitrogen, decreased or increased proteinuria, electrolyte disturbances, and effects on uric acid metabolism. If concerned, it is recommended to seek medical advice in advance. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Changes in glomerular filtration rate: ARB drugs may dilate the efferent arterioles of the glomerulus by blocking the binding of angiotensin II to its receptors, leading to a decrease in glomerular filtration rate. This change may affect the excretory function of the kidneys, resulting in retention of waste products and fluid in the body.

2. Increased creatinine and blood urea nitrogen: Due to changes in glomerular filtration rate, ARB drugs may cause increased concentrations of metabolic waste products such as creatinine and blood urea nitrogen in the bloodstream. This is an important indicator of impaired kidney excretory function and requires close monitoring.

3. Decreased or increased proteinuria: While lowering blood pressure, ARB drugs may also affect the permeability of the glomerular filtration membrane, thereby reducing protein excretion in urine. However, in cases of prerenal ischemia or in elderly patients, these drugs may exacerbate the decrease in glomerular perfusion pressure, leading to increased proteinuria.

4. Electrolyte disturbances: By inhibiting the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, ARB drugs may reduce sodium reabsorption and potassium excretion, potentially leading to elevated blood potassium levels. Chronic hyperkalemia can be harmful to organs such as the heart and requires timely intervention.

5. Effects on uric acid metabolism: ARB drugs may reduce the excretion of uric acid in urine, resulting in elevated uric acid levels in the blood. Chronic hyperuricemia may lead to metabolic disorders such as gout and cause damage to kidney function.

It is recommended to maintain a healthy lifestyle, ensure adequate sleep, improve dietary habits, adjust physical condition, and promote overall health.

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