EFFECTS OF ANTIHYPERTENSIVE DRUGS ON VARIOUS ASPECTS OF RENAL-FUNCTION

This paper reviews the effects of antihypertensive drugs on various as pects of renal function such as renal hemodynamics, sodium excretion a nd microalbuminuria. The discussion also includes the renin-angiotensi n system. It is concluded that most agents reduce renal vascular resis tance, at least in patients who respond with a drop in blood pressure. Microalbuminuria usually also falls, although this effect may be vari able. Changes in renin and sodium excretion depend upon the type of dr ug used. With the present state of knowledge, it is not possible to de fine which type of treatment is most beneficial for the kidney in the long run.