Common Drugs for Stabilization of Renal Function in the Progression of Diabetic Nephropathy and Their Relations with Hypertension Therapy

Introduction: Diabetic nephropathy is characterized by hypertension, progressive albuminuria, glomerulosclerosis and declines in glomerular filtration rate leading to end stage renal disease. Although the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy is not fully understood, current treatment of the patients with diabetic nephropathy is mainly based upon the control of hyperglycaemia and management of blood pressures. Background: Several drugs, which are originally developed for hypertension therapy, have been adopted for stabilization of renal function in diabetic nephropathy. In this review, we first discussed the relationships between diabetic nephropathy and hypertension particularly in the renin-angiotensinaldosterone system. We then summarized chemical structures, pharmacological characteristics and clinical studies of the common drugs used for treatment of diabetic nephropathy, while these drugs have effects against hypertension. Conclusion: This review may provide the constructive information for further drug development in diabetic nephropathy.