[ACE-inhibitors in renal protection].

The renal impairment due to hypertension causes the disturbance of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system which is accompanied with increased activity of the sympathetic nervous system. Administration of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors decreases the production of angiotensin II, secretion of aldosterone, sodium and water retention and peripheral vascular resistance which altogether lead to the reduction of blood pressure. The nephro-protective efficacy of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors was also proved by plenty of extensive international trials both in diabetic and non-diabetic patients with renal diseases. On evidence based medicine we may consider angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers--provided there are no contraindications as the standard therapy in all hypertensive and renal diseases.