Acetaminophen, aspirin and progression of advanced chronic kidney disease

Incidence of Side Effects Associated With Acetaminophen in People Aged 65 Years or More: A Prospective Cohort Study Using Data From the Clinical Practice Research Datalink

OBJECTIVE

The main objective of this study is to examine the safety of oral acetaminophen at its therapeutic dose in adults aged ≥65 years.

METHODS

This population-based cohort study used the Clinical Practice Research Datalink-Gold data. Participants were aged ≥65 years registered with a UK general practice for at least 12 months between 1998 and 2018. Acetaminophen exposure was defined as at least two acetaminophen prescriptions within six months of the first acetaminophen prescription, the first prescription date being the index date. Acetaminophen nonexposure was defined as the absence of two acetaminophen prescriptions within six months over the study period. We calculated propensity score (PS) for acetaminophen prescription and undertook inverse probability treatment weighting using PS and PS-matched analyses to account for confounding. Missing data were handled using multiple imputation. The adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI) were calculated using the Cox proportional hazards regression model.

RESULTS

In total, 180,483 acetaminophen exposed and 402,478 unexposed participants were included in this study. Acetaminophen exposure was associated with an increased risk of perforation or ulceration or bleeding (aHR 1.24; 95% CI 1.16-1.34), uncomplicated peptic ulcers (aHR 1.20; 95% CI 1.10-1.31), lower gastrointestinal bleeding (aHR 1.36; 95% CI 1.29-1.46), heart failure (aHR 1.09; 95% CI 1.06-1.13), hypertension (aHR 1.07; 95% CI 1.04-1.11), and chronic kidney disease (aHR 1.19; 95% CI 1.13-1.24).

CONCLUSION

Despite its perceived safety, acetaminophen is associated with several serious complications. Given its minimal analgesic effectiveness, acetaminophen as the first-line oral analgesic option for long-term conditions in older people requires careful reconsideration.

NSAIDs, analgesics, antiplatelet drugs, and decline in renal function: a retrospective case-control study with SIDIAP database

INTRODUCTION

We aim to explore the association between NSAIDs consumption, Symptomatic Slow Action Drugs for Osteoarthritis (SYSADOA), analgesics, and antiplatelet drugs, and decline in renal function by estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR).

METHODS

We performed a case-control study using the SIDIAP database in Catalonia. We considered defined cases, patients with an eGFR value ≤ 45 ml/min/1.73 m2 in the period 2010-2015 with a previous eGFR value ≥ 60, and no eGFR ≥ 60 after this period. Controls had an eGFR ≥ 60 with no previous eGFR < 60. Five controls were selected for each case, matched by sex, age, index date, Diabetes Mellitus and Hypertension. We estimated Odds Ratios (OR, 95% Confidence Intervals) of decline in renal function for drugs group adjusting with logistic regression models, by consumption measured in DDD. There were n = 18,905 cases and n = 94,456 controls. The mean age was 77 years, 59% were women. The multivariate adjusted model showed a low risk for eGFR decline for NSAIDs (0.92;0.88-0.97), SYSADOA (0.87;0.83-0.91) and acetaminophen (0.84;0.79-0.89), and an high risk for metamizole (1.07;1.03-1.12), and antiplatelet drugs (1.07;1.03-1.11). The low risk in NSAIDs was limited to propionic acid derivatives (0.92;0.88-0.96), whereas an high risk was observed for high doses in both acetic acid derivatives (1.09;1.03-1.15) and Coxibs (1.19;1.08-1.30). Medium and high use of major opioids shows a high risk (1.15;1.03-1.29). Triflusal showed high risk at medium (1.23;1.02-1.48) and high use (1.68;1.40-2.01).

CONCLUSION

We observed a decline in renal function associated with metamizole and antiplatelet agent, especially triflusal, and with high use of acetic acid derivates, Coxibs, and major opioids. Further studies are necessary to confirm these results.

Latest Concepts in the Endodontic Management of Kidney Patients

Doubtlessly, kidney patients present a common challenge in endodontic practice, so specialists in this field should know and follow several key points regarding this group of medically compromised patients. This review paper aims to explain kidney disease and its complications, as well as notify and discuss the latest concepts on anesthesia, pain management, antibiotic prophylaxis/stewardship, and the risk of viral diseases for these patients, and also the oral manifestations of kidney diseases that may guide endodontists to diagnose kidney intervention and prevent hazardous consequences that may happen during or following endodontic practice on these patients. For this purpose, relevant keywords were searched on Scopus, PubMed, Medline, and Web of Science to find published papers from 1980 to July 2023. Based on the quality, validity, and novelty 57 published articles were selected to provide this review to notify the most important concepts and considerations regarding endodontic management of kidney patients. Overall, it is concluded that training and education of general dentists, as well as endodontic specialists with strong technical, scientific, human, and moral knowledge about kidney patients, with emphasis on the philosophy of prevention of common dangerous systemic consequences originating from endodontic treatments, is the responsibility of dental schools in undergraduate as well as post-graduate programs.

An Updated Review on the Metabolite (AM404)-Mediated Central Mechanism of Action of Paracetamol (Acetaminophen): Experimental Evidence and Potential Clinical Impact

Paracetamol remains the recommended first-line option for mild-to-moderate acute pain in general population and particularly in vulnerable populations. Despite its wide use, debate exists regarding the analgesic mechanism of action (MoA) of paracetamol. A growing body of evidence challenged the notion that paracetamol exerts its analgesic effect through cyclooxygenase (COX)-dependent inhibitory effect. It is now more evident that paracetamol analgesia has multiple pathways and is mediated by the formation of the bioactive AM404 metabolite in the central nervous system (CNS). AM404 is a potent activator of TRPV₁, a major contributor to neuronal response to pain in the brain and dorsal horn. In the periaqueductal grey, the bioactive metabolite AM404 activated the TRPV₁ channel-mGlu5 receptor-PLC-DAGL-CB1 receptor signaling cascade. The present article provides a comprehensive literature review of the centrally located, COX-independent, analgesic MoA of paracetamol and relates how the current experimental evidence can be translated into clinical practice. The evidence discussed in this review established paracetamol as a central, COX-independent, antinociceptive medication that has a distinct MoA from non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and a more tolerable safety profile. With the establishment of the central MoA of paracetamol, we believe that paracetamol remains the preferred first-line option for mild-to-moderate acute pain for healthy adults, children, and patients with health concerns. However, safety concerns remain with the high dose of paracetamol due to the NAPQI-mediated liver necrosis. Centrally acting paracetamol/p-aminophenol derivatives could potentiate the analgesic effect of paracetamol without increasing the risk of hepatoxicity. Moreover, the specific central MoA of paracetamol allows its combination with other analgesics, including NSAIDs, with a different MoA. Future experiments to better explain the central actions of paracetamol could pave the way for discovering new central analgesics with a better benefit-to-risk ratio.

Why paracetamol (acetaminophen) is a suitable first choice for treating mild to moderate acute pain in adults with liver, kidney or cardiovascular disease, gastrointestinal disorders, asthma, or who are older

Acute pain is among the most common reasons that people consult primary care physicians, who must weigh benefits versus risks of analgesics use for each patient. Paracetamol (acetaminophen) is a first-choice analgesic for many adults with mild to moderate acute pain, is generally well tolerated at recommended doses (≤4 g/day) in healthy adults and may be preferable to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs that are associated with undesirable gastrointestinal, renal, and cardiovascular effects. Although paracetamol is widely used, many patients and physicians still have questions about its suitability and dosing, especially for older people or adults with underlying comorbidities, for whom there are limited clinical data or evidence-based guidelines. Inappropriate use may increase the risks of both overdosing and inadequate analgesia. To address knowledge deficits and augment existing guidance in salient areas of uncertainty, we have researched, reviewed, and collated published evidence and expert opinion relevant to the acute use of paracetamol by adults with liver, kidney, or cardiovascular diseases, gastrointestinal disorders, asthma, or/and who are older. A concern is hepatotoxicity, but this is rare among adults who use paracetamol as directed, including people with cirrhotic liver disease. Putative epidemiologic associations of paracetamol use with kidney or cardiovascular disease, hypertension, gastrointestinal disorders, and asthma largely reflect confounding biases and are of doubtful relevance to short-term use (<14 days). Paracetamol is a suitable first-line analgesic for mild to moderate acute pain in many adults with liver, kidney or cardiovascular disease, gastrointestinal disorders, asthma, and/or who are older. No evidence supports routine dose reduction for older people. Rather, dosing for adults who are older and/or have decompensated cirrhosis, advanced kidney failure, or analgesic-induced asthma that is known to be cross-sensitive to paracetamol, should be individualized in consultation with their physician, who may recommend a lower effective dose appropriate to the circumstances.

Thromboxane A2 is involved in the development of hypertension in chronic kidney disease rats

Hypertension is one of the most common complications of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Some research has indicated that changes in large artery function especially caused by thromboxane A2 (TXA2) may be a novel factor acting to induce hypertension in CKD. We studied the 5/6 nephrectomy rat model and measured serum levels of creatinine (Cr), calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), TXA2-stable metabolites (thromboxane B2, TXB2), and caudal artery pressure after nephrectomy. The tension variations in thoracic aortas were measured after stimulating by vasoconstrictor/vasodilator using the cumulative concentration administration method and then tested the expression of TXA2 receptors in the thoracic aortas through western blots. The CKD rats developed uremia, electrolyte imbalances，and hypertension. They also exhibited a significant increase in TXB2 concentration. The aortic rings of CKD rats showed an increased contraction response to U46619 (a TXA2 analogue) and the expression of TXA2 receptors also enhanced. In the meanwhile, the diastolic function decreased in the CKD group. Our results demonstrate that the impairment of artery contractile function caused by the increase of TXA2 receptors on the wall of aortic rings may be involved in hypertension in CKD rats.

Long-Term Complications of Coronavirus Disease 2019; What the Oral Surgeon Needs To Know

ABSTRACT

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 manifests mainly as respiratory symptoms. Extrapulmonary manifestations have also been detected and several vital organs may sustain irreversible or long-standing damage. These extrapulmonary manifestations can be detected in cardiovascular, hepatic, renal, and hematologic systems. Maxillofacial surgeons may encounter patients who have recovered from COVID-19 but are still suffering long-term morbidities as a result of this incompletely understood infection. Consequently, they have to be aware of the various systemic complications that may be encountered in these patients as they may interfere with their treatment plan or may necessitate certain modifications and precautions.In this report the authors present the long-standing systemic complications of COVID-19 reported so far, and discuss their implications within the context of maxillofacial surgery with regards to the modifications and precautions in the process of treatment planning.Graphical abstract shows the long-term complications of COVID-19 that may complicate maxillofacial surgical procedures.

Safe and appropriate use of diclofenac in chronic kidney disease: An Indian perspective

Pain is most common symptom associated with progressive disorder, chronic kidney disease (CKD), and is usually undertreated during the early stages of CKD. So, present review was conducted to evaluate the challenges for the management of pain in CKD patients and addresses the scope for considering Diclofenac as suitable alternative for pain management in CKD patient. The database PubMed and Google Scholar were searched from 1970 to Dec 2020 for literature published in English and all studies, review articles that examined the use of Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) in pain management in CKD patients were included. Literatures revealed that there is a considerable challenge in appropriate management of pain in CKD patients include understanding the altered pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of analgesics in CKD patients and the risk of acute interstitial nephritis. The shorter duration of analgesics is acceptable and considered to pose a low risk of acute interstitial nephritis in patients. Considering that Diclofenac has a shorter half-life and high efficacy, it may be well tolerated in patients with CKD. The acceptance of Diclofenac is partly attributed to being a potent COX-2 inhibitor with the lowest IC50 and its rapid onset of action at lowest effective dose. In conclusion, diclofenac may be well tolerated in patients of renal impairment when used at lowest effective dose for shortest dose duration. Diclofenac is worthy of consideration in mild to moderate cases of CKD. For effective pain management, it is vital to evaluate the tolerability and efficacy of the available analgesics critically.

Narcotic Use for Acute Postoperative Pain Management in Mohs Micrographic Surgery Patients With End Stage Renal Disease: A Review of the Literature

BACKGROUND

Uncontrolled acute postoperative pain presents a significant management challenge when opioids are used in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Currently, there is a lack of quality pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic data regarding opioid medication use in ESRD patients to optimize safe and effective management.

OBJECTIVE

To review the published literature on pharmacologic evidence for and against the use of opioid medications for acute postoperative pain following Mohs micrographic surgery in ESRD patients.

METHODS

A search of PubMed was conducted to identify articles on the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of opioid pain medications in ESRD patients through March 1, 2020.

RESULTS

Seventy-five articles were reviewed. Limited data exist on opioids safe for use in ESRD and are mostly confined to small case series. Studies suggest tramadol and hydromorphone could be considered when indicated. Methadone may be a safe option, but should be reserved for treatment coordinated by a trained pain subspecialist.

CONCLUSION

Randomized clinical trials are lacking. Studies that are available are not sufficient to perform a quantitative methodologic approach. Evidence supports the judicious use of postoperative opioid medications in ESRD patients at the lowest possible dose to achieve clinically meaningful improvement in pain and function.

[Is Concomitant Therapy with Acetaminophen and Low-dose Aspirin a Risk Factor for CKD Progression? A 6-Year Cohort Study]

Concomitant therapy with acetaminophen (APAP) and low-dose aspirin is often used in clinical settings; however, it is unclear whether this combination is involved in the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD). We hypothesized that concomitant therapy with APAP and low-dose aspirin may cause CKD progression. We carried out a retrospective 6-year cohort study that included all patients who received low-dose aspirin from January 2011 to December 2016 at Kaetsu Hospital. Primary outcome was defined as CKD progression at the end of the study compared with baseline. Among the 441 patients treated during the study period, we identified 89 cases of CKD progression. Multivariate regression analysis showed that exposure to APAP>50 g [odds ratio (OR), 2.68, 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.08-6.70], age increase by 1 year (OR, 1.05, 95% CI, 1.02-1.08), and diabetes mellitus (OR, 2.40, 95% CI, 1.41-4.08) had positive associations with CKD progression. Our findings suggested that concomitant therapy with APAP and low-dose aspirin increased the risk of CKD progression. Therefore, we recommend more thorough monitoring of serum creatinine when patients are on such concomitant therapy. Moreover, it is important to advise users of low-dose aspirin to avoid unnecessary use of APAP, in order to reduce the risk of CKD progression.

Channeling Bias in the Analysis of Risk of Myocardial Infarction, Stroke, Gastrointestinal Bleeding, and Acute Renal Failure with the Use of Paracetamol Compared with Ibuprofen

INTRODUCTION

Observational studies estimating severe outcomes for paracetamol versus ibuprofen use have acknowledged the specific challenge of channeling bias. A previous study relying on negative controls suggested that using large-scale propensity score (LSPS) matching may mitigate bias better than models using limited lists of covariates.

OBJECTIVE

The aim was to assess whether using LSPS matching would enable the evaluation of paracetamol, compared to ibuprofen, and increased risk of myocardial infarction, stroke, gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding, or acute renal failure.

STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING

In a new-user cohort study, we used two propensity score model strategies for confounder controls. One replicated the approach of controlling for a hand-picked list. The second used LSPSs based on all available covariates for matching. Positive and negative controls assessed residual confounding and calibrated confidence intervals. The data source was the Clinical Practices Research Datalink (CPRD).

RESULTS

A substantial proportion of negative controls were statistically significant after propensity score matching on the publication covariates, indicating considerable systematic error. LSPS adjustment was less biased, but residual error remained. The calibrated estimates resulted in very wide confidence intervals, indicating large uncertainty in effect estimates once residual error was incorporated.

CONCLUSIONS

For paracetamol versus ibuprofen, when using LSPS methods in the CPRD, it is only possible to distinguish true effects if those effects are large (hazard ratio > 2). Due to their smaller hazard ratios, the outcomes under study cannot be differentiated from null effects (represented by negative controls) even if there were a true effect. Based on these data, we conclude that we are unable to determine whether paracetamol is associated with an increased risk of myocardial infarction, stroke, GI bleeding, and acute renal failure compared to ibuprofen, due to residual confounding.

Heat shock protein 90 relieves heat stress damage of myocardial cells by regulating Akt and PKM2 signaling in vivo

Heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90) is associated with resisting heat-stress injury to the heart, particularly in myocardial mitochondria. However, the mechanism underlying this effect remains unclear. The present study was based on the high expression of Hsp90 during heat stress (HS) and involved inducing higher expression of Hsp90 using aspirin in mouse hearts. Higher Hsp90 levels inhibited HS-induced myocardial damage and apoptosis, and mitochondrial dysfunction, by stimulating Akt (protein kinase B) activation and PKM2 (pyruvate kinase M2) signaling, and subsequently increasing mitochondrial Bcl-2 (B-cell lymphoma 2) levels and its phosphorylation. Functional inhibition of Hsp90 using geldanamycin verified that reducing the association of Hsp90 with Akt and PKM2 caused the functional decline of phosphorylated (p)-Akt and PKM2 that initiate Bcl-2 to move into mitochondria, where it is phosphorylated. Protection by Hsp90 was weakened by blocking Akt activation using Triciribine, which could not be recovered by normal initiation of the PKM2 pathway. Furthermore, increased Hsp70 levels induced by Akt activation in myocardial cells may flow into the blood to resist heat stress. The results provided in vivo mechanistic evidence that in myocardial cells, Hsp90 resists heat stress via separate activation of the Akt-Bcl-2 and PKM2-Bcl-2 signaling pathways, which contribute toward preserving cardiac function and mitochondrial homeostasis.

Current Management of Patients With Acquired Solitary Kidney

Persons with acquired solitary kidney, including those who have had a unilateral nephrectomy for living kidney donation, renal malignancies, or trauma, have decreased renal mass that leads to increased intraglomerular pressure and glomerular hyperfiltration. These physiologic adaptations of solitary kidney may exacerbate other preexisting and genetic conditions that could create a predisposition to or worsen glomerular pathologies, leading to unfavorable renal outcomes. Hence, these persons may benefit from special care and lifestyle modifications, including nutritional interventions. There is a lack of consensus and evidence for proper surveillance and management after nephrectomy, and misconceptions in both directions of having a “normal” versus “abnormal” kidney status may cause confusion among patients and healthcare providers pertaining to long-term kidney health monitoring and management. We have reviewed available data on the impact of lifestyle modifications, particularly nutritional measures, and pharmacologic interventions, on short- and long-term outcomes after nephrectomy. We recommend avoidance of excessively high dietary protein intake (>1 g/kg per day) and high dietary sodium intake (>4 grams/d), adequate dietary fiber intake from plant-based foods, a target body mass index of <30 kg/m² (in non-athletes and non-bodybuilders), and judicious management of risk factors of progressive chronic kidney disease (CKD), and future studies should help to better determine optimal care practices for these persons.

Clinical Pharmacology Considerations in Pain Management in Patients with Advanced Kidney Failure

Pain is common and poorly managed in patients with advanced CKD, likely due to both under and over prescription of appropriate analgesics. Poorly managed pain contributes to patients' poor quality of life and excessive health care use. There is tremendous variability within and between countries in prescribing patterns of analgesics, suggesting that factors other than patient characteristics account for these differences. This article discusses the pharmacologic management of acute and chronic pain in patients with advanced CKD, and the role analgesics, including opioids, play in the overall approach to pain management.

Aspirin for Primary Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease and Renal Disease Progression in Chronic Kidney Disease Patients: a Multicenter Randomized Clinical Trial (AASER Study)

BACKGROUND

Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) are at high risk for developing cardiovascular events. However, limited evidence is available regarding the use of aspirin in CKD patients to decrease cardiovascular risk and to slow renal disease progression.

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective, multicenter, open-label randomized controlled trial.

SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

One hundred eleven patients with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) 15-60 ml/min/1.73 m² without previous cardiovascular events.

INTERVENTION

Aspirin treatment (100 mg/day) (n = 50) or usual therapy (n = 61). Mean follow-up time was 64.8 ± 16.4 months.

OUTCOMES

The primary endpoint was composed of cardiovascular death, acute coronary syndrome (nonfatal MI, coronary revascularization, or unstable angina pectoris), cerebrovascular disease, heart failure, or nonfatal peripheral arterial disease. Secondary endpoints were fatal and nonfatal coronary events, renal events (defined as doubling of serum creatinine, ≥ 50% decrease in eGFR, or renal replacement therapy), and bleeding episodes.

RESULTS

During follow-up, 17 and 5 participants suffered from a primary endpoint in the control and aspirin groups, respectively. Aspirin did not significantly reduce primary composite endpoint (HR, 0.396 (0.146-1.076), p = 0.069. Eight patients suffered from a fatal or nonfatal coronary event in the control group compared to no patients in the aspirin group. Aspirin significantly reduced the risk of coronary events (log-rank, 5.997; p = 0.014). Seventeen patients in the control group reached the renal outcome in comparison with 3 patients in the aspirin group. Aspirin treatment decreased renal disease progression in a model adjusted for age, baseline kidney function, and diabetes mellitus (HR, 0.272; 95% CI, 0.077-0.955; p = 0.043) but did not when adjusted for albuminuria. No differences were found in minor bleeding episodes between groups and no major bleeding was registered.

LIMITATIONS

Small sample size and open-label trial.

CONCLUSIONS

Long-term treatment with low-dose aspirin did not reduce the composite primary endpoint; however, there were reductions in secondary endpoints with fewer coronary events and renal outcomes. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01709994.

Heat stress-induced renal damage in poultry and the protective effects of HSP60 and HSP47

The present study investigates the effects of heat stress on the kidney in broilers, based on previous findings which showed that heat stress caused cardiac damage in broilers. Further, the possible renoprotective role of aspirin and the heat shock proteins HSP60 and HSP47 was also investigated. The enzyme levels of urea and uric acid, which are indicators of renal damage, and lactate dehydrogenase, an indicator of oxidative damage, were measured in chickens that were only exposed to heat stress, chickens that were pretreated with aspirin before heat stress, and chickens that were only treated with aspirin. Further, histological examination of renal tissue from the three groups was also performed. Finally, expression of HSP60 and HSP47 was also examined. In the heat stress group, the enzyme measurements were indicative of renal dysfunction and oxidative damage, and the histological findings were indicative of renal ischemia and damage. Aspirin seemed to have a protective effect against the renal damage caused by the stress, based on the enzyme measurements and histopathological findings in the aspirin-treated group. The findings also indicate that aspirin may induce HSP60 and HSP47 expression in renal cells. Finally, the expression patterns of HSP60 and HSP47 indicated that they may play a renoprotective role, as their expression was higher in the aspirin-treated groups. In conclusion, the present findings show that heat stress causes renal damage in poultry and that aspirin may play a protective role against this damage via pathways that involve HSP60 and HSP47.

Channeling in the Use of Nonprescription Paracetamol and Ibuprofen in an Electronic Medical Records Database: Evidence and Implications

Introduction

Over-the-counter analgesics such as paracetamol and ibuprofen are among the most widely used, and having a good understanding of their safety profile is important to public health. Prior observational studies estimating the risks associated with paracetamol use acknowledge the inherent limitations of these studies. One threat to the validity of observational studies is channeling bias, i.e. the notion that patients are systematically exposed to one drug or the other, based on current and past comorbidities, in a manner that affects estimated relative risk.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to examine whether evidence of channeling bias exists in observational studies that compare paracetamol with ibuprofen, and, if so, the extent to which confounding adjustment can mitigate this bias.

Study Design and Setting

In a cohort of 140,770 patients, we examined whether those who received any paracetamol (including concomitant users) were more likely to have prior diagnoses of gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding, myocardial infarction (MI), stroke, or renal disease than those who received ibuprofen alone. We compared propensity score distributions between drugs, and examined the degree to which channeling bias could be controlled using a combination of negative control disease outcome models and large-scale propensity score matching. Analyses were conducted using the Clinical Practice Research Datalink.

Results

The proportions of prior MI, GI bleeding, renal disease, and stroke were significantly higher in those prescribed any paracetamol versus ibuprofen alone, after adjusting for sex and age. We were not able to adequately remove selection bias using a selected set of covariates for propensity score adjustment; however, when we fit the propensity score model using a substantially larger number of covariates, evidence of residual bias was attenuated.

Conclusions

Although using selected covariates for propensity score adjustment may not sufficiently reduce bias, large-scale propensity score matching offers a novel approach to consider to mitigate the effects of channeling bias.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1007/s40264-017-0581-7) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Post Hoc Analyses of Randomized Clinical Trial for the Effect of Clopidogrel Added to Aspirin on Kidney Function

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Despite the high burden of CKD, few specific therapies are available that can halt disease progression. In animal models, clopidogrel has emerged as a potential therapy to preserve kidney function. The effect of clopidogrel on kidney function in humans has not been established.

DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS, & MEASUREMENTS

The Secondary Prevention of Small Subcortical Strokes Study randomized participants with prior lacunar stroke to treatment with aspirin or aspirin plus clopidogrel. We compared annual eGFR decline and incidence of rapid eGFR decline (≥30% from baseline) using generalized estimating equations and interval-censored proportional hazards regression, respectively. We also stratified our analyses by baseline eGFR, systolic BP target, and time after randomization.

RESULTS

At randomization, median age was 62 (interquartile range, 55-71) years old; 36% had a history of diabetes, 90% had hypertension, and the median eGFR was 81 (interquartile range, 65-94) ml/min per 1 m2. Persons receiving aspirin plus clopidogrel had an average annual change in kidney function of -1.39 (95% confidence interval, -1.15 to -1.62) ml/min per 1.73 m2 per year compared with -1.52 (95% confidence interval, -1.30 to -1.74) ml/min per 1.73 m2 per year among persons receiving aspirin only (P=0.42). Rapid kidney function decline occurred in 21% of participants receiving clopidogrel plus aspirin compared with 22% of participants receiving aspirin plus placebo (hazard ratio, 0.94; 95% confidence interval, 0.79 to 1.10; P=0.42). Findings did not vary by baseline eGFR, time after randomization, or systolic BP target (all P values for interaction were >0.3).

CONCLUSIONS

We found no effect of clopidogrel added to aspirin compared with aspirin alone on kidney function decline among persons with prior lacunar stroke.

Effect of aspirin on renal disease progression in patients with type 2 diabetes: A multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized trial. The renaL disEase progression by aspirin in diabetic pAtients (LEDA) trial. Rationale and study design

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is one of the most common causes of chronic kidney disease and kidney failure. It has been estimated that the annual decline of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) among patients with T2DM is approximately 2.0-2.5mL min^-1 y^-1. Cyclooxygenase-dependent eicosanoids, such as 11-dehydro-thromboxane (Tx)B₂, are increased in T2DM patients and are potentially involved in the regulation of renal blood flow. Animal models showed that cyclooxygenase inhibitors, such as aspirin, are associated with improvements in renal plasma flow and eGFR values.

HYPOTHESIS

The primary end point of the LEDA trial is to evaluate the 1-year decline of eGFR in T2DM patients treated or not with low-dose aspirin (100mg/d). Secondary end points will be the rapid decline in renal function, defined as a reduction of eGFR ≥5mL/min, and change of renal function class after 1-year follow-up. Furthermore, urinary excretion 11-dehydro-TxB₂ will be related to renal function modifications.

STUDY DESIGN

A phase 3 no-profit, multicenter, double-blind, randomized intervention trial of aspirin 100mg/dvs placebo (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02895113). All patients will be monitored at 6 and 12months after randomization to assess drug adherence and eGFR changes.

SUMMARY

The LEDA trial is the first double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trial aimed at examining whether aspirin treatment may beneficially affect kidney function in patients with T2DM by reducing the annual eGFR decline. The trial will also examine whether the potential renoprotective effects of aspirin might be partly due to its inhibition of TxB₂ production.

Ensuring Patient Safety During the Transition to ESRD

Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) are at risk for complications both inherent to the disease and as a consequence of its treatment. The dangers that CKD patients face change across the spectrum of the disease. Providers who are well-versed in these safety threats are best poised to safeguard patients as their CKD progresses.

Selective cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitor use and progression of renal function in patients with chronic kidney disease: a single-center retrospective cohort study

Background

The use of selective COX-2 (sCOX-2) inhibitors with acute kidney injury, salt water retention, and cardiovascular events have been correlated in subjects with normal kidney function, but sCOX-2 inhibitor use concerning the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD) remains uncertain.

Objectives

To determine the progression of renal function and electrolyte abnormalities among CKD patients after using sCOX-2 inhibitors during short- and long-term periods.

Methods

The study employed a retrospective cohort design comprising all types of CKD patients with and without sCOX-2 inhibitors (celecoxib and etoricoxib). Data collected included medical data, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and serum electrolytes at 3 and 6 months between January 2009 and January 2014. Subjects attended the outpatient clinic and were then followed up until discontinuation of the drugs at years 1 and 2 until May 2016.

Results

Ninety-two CKD patients on sCOX-2 inhibitors and 92 CKD patients without sCOX-2 inhibitors were included. The sCOX-2 inhibitor group showed more decline in eGFR than the control group at 3 and 6 months of follow-up (–8.27±9.75 vs –1.64±6.05 mL/min/1.73 m², P<0.001 and –12.36±6.48 vs –4.31±5.11 mL/min/1.73 m², P=0.001, respectively) and at 1 and 2 years of follow-up after subjects discontinued sCOX-2 (–6.84±10.34 vs –1.61±8.93 mL/min/1.73 m², P=0.004 and –10.26±10.19 vs –5.12±8.61 mL/min/1.73 m², P=0.005, respectively). In addition, the sCOX-2 inhibitor group had significantly more increased serum potassium during the study follow-up than the control group.

Conclusion

The sCOX-2 inhibitors are associated with an increased risk for rapid eGFR decline and hyperkalemia in both the short term and in the long term after sCOX-2 inhibitors were terminated in the setting of a community-based CKD population. For CKD patients, these results suggest that sCOX-2 inhibitors should be closely monitored and chronic exposure to any sCOX-2 inhibitors should be avoided.

Practical Approach to Detection and Management of Chronic Kidney Disease for the Primary Care Clinician

A panel of internists and nephrologists developed this practical approach for the Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative to guide assessment and care of chronic kidney disease (CKD) by primary care clinicians. Chronic kidney disease is defined as a glomerular filtration rate (GFR) <60 mL/min/1.73 m(2) and/or markers of kidney damage for at least 3 months. In clinical practice the most common tests for CKD include GFR estimated from the serum creatinine concentration (eGFR) and albuminuria from the urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio. Assessment of eGFR and albuminuria should be performed for persons with diabetes and/or hypertension but is not recommended for the general population. Management of CKD includes reducing the patient's risk of CKD progression and risk of associated complications, such as acute kidney injury and cardiovascular disease, anemia, and metabolic acidosis, as well as mineral and bone disorder. Prevention of CKD progression requires blood pressure <140/90 mm Hg, use of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers for patients with albuminuria and hypertension, hemoglobin A1c ≤7% for patients with diabetes, and correction of CKD-associated metabolic acidosis. To reduce patient safety hazards from medications, the level of eGFR should be considered when prescribing, and nephrotoxins should be avoided, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. The main reasons to refer to nephrology specialists are eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73 m(2), severe albuminuria, and acute kidney injury. The ultimate goal of CKD management is to prevent disease progression, minimize complications, and promote quality of life.

Is Long-Term Low-Dose Aspirin Therapy Associated with Renal Dysfunction in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes? JPAD2 Cohort Study

Background

Low-dose aspirin is widely recommended for patients at high risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD); however, it remains uncertain whether long-term treatment adversely affects renal function in patients with diabetes.

We investigated whether long-term low-dose aspirin affects renal dysfunction in patients with diabetes.

Methods

We conducted a randomized controlled trial (RCT), the Japanese Primary Prevention of Atherosclerosis with Aspirin for Diabetes (JPAD) trial, to evaluate low-dose aspirin as primary prevention for CVD in patients with type 2 diabetes. We followed the patients with negative urine dipstick albumin of the JPAD trial in a cohort study after the RCT period was completed. Patients were randomly allocated to receive aspirin (81 mg or 100 mg daily, aspirin group) or no aspirin (no aspirin group). After the RCT, the treating physician decided whether to administer aspirin. We evaluated the incidence of positive urine dipstick albumin and annual changes in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR).

Results

Positive urine dipstick albumin developed in 297 patients in the aspirin group (n = 1,075) and 270 patients in the no aspirin group (n = 1,098) during follow-up (median, 8.5 years). Intention-to-treat analysis showed low-dose aspirin did not increase the incidence of positive urine dipstick albumin (hazard ratio [HR], 1.17; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.995–1.38). On-treatment analysis yielded similar results (HR, 1.08; 95% CI, 0.92–1.28). Multivariable analysis showed the incidence of positive urine dipstick albumin was higher among the elderly and those with elevated serum creatinine, high hemoglobin A1c, or high blood pressure; however, low-dose aspirin did not increase the risk of positive urine dipstick albumin. There were no significant differences in annual changes in eGFR between the groups (aspirin, −0.8 ± 2.9; no aspirin, −0.9 ± 2.5 ml/min/1.73m²/year).

Conclusion

Long-term low-dose aspirin does not affect eGFR and positive urine dipstick albumin in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Associations of antiplatelet therapy and beta blockade with patient outcomes in atherosclerotic renovascular disease

Randomized trials have shown a neutral effect of percutaneous revascularization compared with optimal medical therapy in patients with atherosclerotic renovascular disease (ARVD). However, there are few data to define what constitutes optimal medical therapy. We present a retrospective analysis of 529 ARVD patients. Separate analyses were performed comparing outcomes in patients prescribed/not prescribed beta blocker and antiplatelet agents. Analyses were adjusted for effects of baseline covariates on probability of treatment and on clinical outcome. Over a median follow-up period of 3.8 years, antiplatelet therapy was associated with a reduced risk for death (relative risk, 0.52 [95% confidence interval {CI}: 0.31-0.89]; P = .02). Beta blocker therapy was associated with a reduced for death (relative risk, 0.45 [95% CI: 0.21-0.97]; P = .04) and nonfatal cardiovascular events (relative risk, 0.74 [95% CI: 0.60-0.90]; P = .003). Although limited by small patient numbers, this study suggests that in ARVD, treatment with antiplatelet therapy and beta blockade may associate with a prognostic benefit.

Severe hepatoxicity caused by aspirin overdose: a case report

We report here the rare case of a 61-year-old man with multiple organ dysfunction caused by an aspirin overdose (4 g orally). The patient presented with a fever that reached 39.2 °C, a peptic ulcer, and massive upper gastrointestinal bleeding. His blood test results were as follows: white blood cell count, 1.8 × 10(9)/L; absolute lymphocytes, 0.4 × 10(9)/L; absolute neutrophils, 1.2 × 10(9)/L; and electrolyte disturbances. A computed tomography (CT) scan showed evidence of bilateral inferior pulmonary infection and acute pancreatitis. Thick dark bile with visible floccule was drawn via a percutaneous transhepatic cholangiodrainage (PTCD). Klebsiella pneumoniae was detected in microbiological bile tests. Two years later, the patient died of chronic liver failure.

Status of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs use and its association with chronic kidney disease: a cross-sectional survey in China

AIM

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) have been reported to be associated with adverse effects including kidney injury, while relevant studies from developing countries are limited. We aimed to explore the status of NSAIDs use in China, as well as cross-sectional association between NSAIDs intake and presence of chronic kidney disease (CKD).

METHODS

A national representative sample of 47,204 adults in China was used. Prevalence of regular NSAIDs use was reported. Age- and sex- matched controls of NSAIDs users were then selected. The association between NSAIDs use and kidney injury were analyzed using logistic regression.

RESULTS

Altogether 1129 participants reported regular use of NSAIDs, with the adjusted prevalence of 3.6% (95% CI, 3.2%-3.9%). And 76.9% of them (n = 868) had taken phenacetin-containing analgesics, with an adjusted prevalence of 3.2% (95% CI, 2.9%-3.5%). After adjusting for potential confounders, long-term NSAIDs intake (≥ 48 months) was associated with eGFR < 60 mL/min per 1.73 m2, with an OR of 2.36 (95% CI, 1.28-4.37).

CONCLUSION

Regular use of NSAIDs, especially phenacetin-containing drugs, is prevalent in China. And long-term NSAIDs intake (≥ 48 months) was independently associated with reduced renal function.

Paracetamol: not as safe as we thought? A systematic literature review of observational studies

Objectives

We conducted a systematic literature review to assess the adverse event (AE) profile of paracetamol.

Methods

We searched Medline and Embase from database inception to 1 May 2013. We screened for observational studies in English, which reported mortality, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal (GI) or renal AEs in the general adult population at standard analgesic doses of paracetamol. Study quality was assessed using Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation. Pooled or adjusted summary statistics were presented for each outcome.

Results

Of 1888 studies retrieved, 8 met inclusion criteria, and all were cohort studies. Comparing paracetamol use versus no use, of two studies reporting mortality one showed a dose–response and reported an increased relative rate of mortality from 0.95 (0.92 to 0.98) to 1.63 (1.58 to 1.68). Of four studies reporting cardiovascular AEs, all showed a dose–response with one reporting an increased risk ratio of all cardiovascular AEs from 1.19 (0.81 to 1.75) to 1.68 (1.10 to 2.57). One study reporting GI AEs reported a dose–response with increased relative rate of GI AEs or bleeds from 1.11 (1.04 to 1.18) to 1.49 (1.34 to 1.66). Of four studies reporting renal AEs, three reported a dose–response with one reporting an increasing OR of ≥30% decrease in estimated glomerular filtration rate from 1.40 (0.79 to 2.48) to 2.19 (1.4 to 3.43).

Discussion

Given the observational nature of the data, channelling bias may have had an important impact. However, the dose–response seen for most endpoints suggests a considerable degree of paracetamol toxicity especially at the upper end of standard analgesic doses.

Analysis of risk factors associated with renal function trajectory over time: a comparison of different statistical approaches

BACKGROUND

The most commonly used methods to investigate risk factors associated with renal function trajectory over time include linear regression on individual glomerular filtration rate (GFR) slopes, linear mixed models and generalized estimating equations (GEEs). The objective of this study was to explain the principles of these three methods and to discuss their advantages and limitations in particular when renal function trajectories are not completely observable due to dropout.

METHODS

We generated data from a hypothetical cohort of 200 patients with chronic kidney disease at inclusion and seven subsequent annual measurements of GFR. The data were generated such that both baseline level and slope of GFR over time were associated with baseline albuminuria status. In a second version of the dataset, we assumed that patients systematically dropped out after a GFR measurement of <15 mL/min/1.73 m(2). Each dataset was analysed with the three methods.

RESULTS

The estimated effects of baseline albuminuria status on GFR slope were similar among the three methods when no patient dropped out. When 32.7% dropped out, standard GEE provided biased estimates of the mean GFR slope in normo-, micro- and macroalbuminuric patients. Linear regression on individual slopes and linear mixed models provided slope estimates of the same magnitude, likely because most patients had at least three GFR measurements. However, the linear mixed model was the only method to provide effect estimates on both slope and baseline level of GFR unaffected by dropout.

CONCLUSION

This study illustrates that the linear mixed model is the preferred method to investigate risk factors associated with renal function trajectories in studies, where patients may dropout during the study period because of initiation of renal replacement therapy.

Analgesia dose prescribing and estimated glomerular filtration rate decline: a general practice database linkage cohort study

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to quantify the short-term effect of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), aspirin and paracetamol analgesia dose prescribing on estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) decline in the general practice population.

DESIGN

A population-based longitudinal clinical data linkage cohort study.

SETTING

Two large general practices in North Staffordshire, UK.

PARTICIPANTS

Patients aged 40 years and over with ≥2 eGFR measurements spaced ≥90 days apart between 1 January 2009 and 31 December 2010 were selected.

EXPOSURE

Using WHO Defined Daily Dose standardised cumulative analgesia prescribing, patients were categorised into non-user, normal and high-dose groups.

OUTCOME MEASURE

The primary outcome was defined as a >5 mL/min/1.73 m(2)/year eGFR decrease between the first and last eGFR. Logistic regression analyses were used to estimate risk, adjusting for sociodemographics, comorbidity, baseline chronic kidney disease (CKD) status, renin-angiotensin-system inhibitors and other analgesia prescribing.

RESULTS

There were 4145 patients (mean age 66 years, 55% female) with an analgesia prescribing prevalence of 17.2% for NSAIDs, 39% for aspirin and 22% for paracetamol and stage 3-5 CKD prevalence was 16.1% (n=667). Normal or high-dose NSAID and paracetamol prescribing was not significantly associated with eGFR decline. High-dose aspirin prescribing was associated with a reduced risk of eGFR decline in patients with a baseline (first) eGFR ≥60 mL/min/1.73 m(2); OR=0.52 (95% CI 0.35 to 0.77).

CONCLUSIONS

NSAID, aspirin and paracetamol prescribing over 2 years did not significantly affect eGFR decline with a reduced risk of eGFR decline in high-dose aspirin users with well-preserved renal function. However, the long-term effects of analgesia use on eGFR decline remain to be determined.

Regression methods for investigating risk factors of chronic kidney disease outcomes: the state of the art

Background

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a progressive and usually irreversible disease. Different types of outcomes are of interest in the course of CKD such as time-to-dialysis, transplantation or decline of the glomerular filtration rate (GFR). Statistical analyses aiming at investigating the association between these outcomes and risk factors raise a number of methodological issues. The objective of this study was to give an overview of these issues and to highlight some statistical methods that can address these topics.

Methods

A literature review of statistical methods published between 2002 and 2012 to investigate risk factors of CKD outcomes was conducted within the Scopus database. The results of the review were used to identify important methodological issues as well as to discuss solutions for each type of CKD outcome.

Results

Three hundred and four papers were selected. Time-to-event outcomes were more often investigated than quantitative outcome variables measuring kidney function over time. The most frequently investigated events in survival analyses were all-cause death, initiation of kidney replacement therapy, and progression to a specific value of GFR. While competing risks were commonly accounted for, interval censoring was rarely acknowledged when appropriate despite existing methods. When the outcome of interest was the quantitative decline of kidney function over time, standard linear models focussing on the slope of GFR over time were almost as often used as linear mixed models which allow various numbers of repeated measurements of kidney function per patient. Informative dropout was accounted for in some of these longitudinal analyses.

Conclusions

This study provides a broad overview of the statistical methods used in the last ten years for investigating risk factors of CKD progression, as well as a discussion of their limitations. Some existing potential alternatives that have been proposed in the context of CKD or in other contexts are also highlighted.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and chronic kidney disease progression: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are widely regarded as one risk factor, which influences chronic kidney disease (CKD) progression. However, previous literature reviews have not quantified the risk in moderate to severe CKD patients.

OBJECTIVE

To estimate the strength of association between chronic NSAID use and CKD progression.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational general practice or population studies featuring patients aged 45 years and over. The electronic databases searched were MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane, AMED, BNI and CINAHL until September 2011 without date or language restrictions. Searches included the reference lists of relevant identified studies, WEB of KNOWLEDGE, openSIGLE, specific journals, the British Library and expert networks. For relevant studies, random effects meta-analysis was used to estimate the association between NSAID use and accelerated CKD progression (estimated glomerular filtration rate decline ≥ 15 ml/min/1.73 m2).

RESULTS

From a possible 768 articles, after screening and selection, seven studies were identified (5 cohort, 1 case-control and 1 cross-sectional) and three were included in the meta-analysis. Regular-dose NSAID use did not significantly affect the risk of accelerated CKD progression; pooled odds ratio (OR) = 0.96 (95%CI: 0.86-1.07), but high-dose NSAID use significantly increased the risk of accelerated CKD progression; pooled OR = 1.26 (95%CI: 1.06-1.50).

CONCLUSIONS

The avoidance of NSAIDs in the medium term is unnecessary in patients with moderate to severe CKD, if not otherwise contraindicated. As the definition of high-dose of NSAID use remains unclear, the lowest effective dose of NSAIDs should be prescribed where indicated.

The modern pharmacology of paracetamol: therapeutic actions, mechanism of action, metabolism, toxicity and recent pharmacological findings

Paracetamol is used worldwide for its analgesic and antipyretic actions. It has a spectrum of action similar to that of NSAIDs and resembles particularly the COX-2 selective inhibitors. Paracetamol is, on average, a weaker analgesic than NSAIDs or COX-2 selective inhibitors but is often preferred because of its better tolerance. Despite the similarities to NSAIDs, the mode of action of paracetamol has been uncertain, but it is now generally accepted that it inhibits COX-1 and COX-2 through metabolism by the peroxidase function of these isoenzymes. This results in inhibition of phenoxyl radical formation from a critical tyrosine residue essential for the cyclooxygenase activity of COX-1 and COX-2 and prostaglandin (PG) synthesis. Paracetamol shows selectivity for inhibition of the synthesis of PGs and related factors when low levels of arachidonic acid and peroxides are available but conversely, it has little activity at substantial levels of arachidonic acid and peroxides. The result is that paracetamol does not suppress the severe inflammation of rheumatoid arthritis and acute gout but does inhibit the lesser inflammation resulting from extraction of teeth and is also active in a variety of inflammatory tests in experimental animals. Paracetamol often appears to have COX-2 selectivity. The apparent COX-2 selectivity of action of paracetamol is shown by its poor anti-platelet activity and good gastrointestinal tolerance. Unlike both non-selective NSAIDs and selective COX-2 inhibitors, paracetamol inhibits other peroxidase enzymes including myeloperoxidase. Inhibition of myeloperoxidase involves paracetamol oxidation and concomitant decreased formation of halogenating oxidants (e.g. hypochlorous acid, hypobromous acid) that may be associated with multiple inflammatory pathologies including atherosclerosis and rheumatic diseases. Paracetamol may, therefore, slow the development of these diseases. Paracetamol, NSAIDs and selective COX-2 inhibitors all have central and peripheral effects. As is the case with the NSAIDs, including the selective COX-2 inhibitors, the analgesic effects of paracetamol are reduced by inhibitors of many endogenous neurotransmitter systems including serotonergic, opioid and cannabinoid systems. There is considerable debate about the hepatotoxicity of therapeutic doses of paracetamol. Much of the toxicity may result from overuse of combinations of paracetamol with opioids which are widely used, particularly in USA.

Comorbid Heart Failure and Renal Impairment: Epidemiology and Management

Heart failure mortality is significantly increased in patients with baseline renal impairment and those with underlying heart failure who subsequently develop renal dysfunction. This accelerated progression occurs independent of the cause or grade of renal dysfunction and baseline risk factors. Recent large prospective databases have highlighted the depth of the current problem, while longitudinal population studies support an increasing disease burden. We have extensively reviewed the epidemiological and therapeutic data among these patients. The evidence points to a progression of heart failure early in renal impairment, even in the albuminuric stage. The data also support poor prescription of prognostic therapies. As renal function is the most important prognostic factor in heart failure, it is important to establish the current understanding of the disease burden and the therapeutic implications.

Systolic pressure, diastolic pressure, or pulse pressure as a cardiovascular risk factor in renal disease

Chronic kidney disease is a leading global health problem with an increasing prevalence. Hypertension is present in most patients with chronic kidney disease, and hypertension-related nephrosclerosis is a top cause of progressive renal damage and end-stage renal disease. Systolic blood pressure (BP) and pulse pressure, together with nocturnal BP, are the most important factors favoring the progression of renal failure. Consequently, strict control of BP and other cardiovascular risk factors is required, including an adequate degree of suppression of the renin-angiotensin system in every patient.