How do ACE inhibitors help treat chronic kidney disease?

Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors are medications primarily used to manage chronic kidney disease by addressing underlying hypertension, a major cause of kidney damage.12

These drugs function by blocking the activity of the angiotensin-converting enzyme, which prevents the formation of angiotensin II. Angiotensin II is a potent hormone that causes the constriction of small arteries and stimulates the release of aldosterone, leading to increased blood pressure and salt and water retention. By inhibiting this process, ACE inhibitors help to:3

• Relax arteries: This reduces excessive constriction, which lowers blood pressure and decreases the workload on the kidneys.34
• Promote excretion: They facilitate the renal excretion of salt and water, helping to manage fluid balance.4

By controlling blood pressure, ACE inhibitors help protect the nephrons—the kidney's filtering units—from the progressive injury caused by high pressure, thereby slowing the overall progression of kidney disease.2