| name | Direct Renin Inhibitors |
| classification | Antihypertensive Agents |
| pharmacokinetics | Pharmacokinetics vary between specific direct renin inhibitors. Generally, oral administration results in variable bioavailability. Metabolism primarily occurs in the liver, with excretion primarily through the kidneys. First-pass metabolism and half-life differ among drugs. This data must be referenced for a specific drug, as the class does not have a singular drug profile. |
| suggested dosage | Dosage must be individualized by a healthcare professional based on patient factors (e.g., blood pressure, kidney function, other conditions). General guidelines are not applicable and may be harmful. |
| indications | Primary indication is hypertension, particularly in those who do not respond adequately to other antihypertensives or have contraindications to those therapies. Specific uses and efficacy vary by individual drug. |
| safety in pregnancy | Pregnancy risk category is typically C (risk cannot be ruled out). Generally not recommended during pregnancy, but individual patient need may warrant exceptions. Consult a physician before taking any medication during pregnancy. |
| safety in breastfeeding | Limited data on excretion in breast milk varies by drug. Use is generally not recommended without careful consideration of potential risks and benefits by a physician. |
| side effects | | 1 | Headache | | 2 | Dizziness | | 3 | Fatigue | | 4 | Cough | | 5 | Diarrhea | | 6 | Nausea | | 7 | Vomiting | | 8 | Hyperkalemia (elevated potassium) | | 9 | Renal (kidney) problems | | 10 | Rash | | 11 | Angioedema (facial, lip, tongue, or throat swelling) | | 12 | Hypotension (low blood pressure) |
|
| alternatives | |
| contraindications | | 1 | Hypersensitivity to direct renin inhibitors or components | | 2 | Severe renal impairment | | 3 | Severe dehydration | | 4 | History of angioedema associated with ACE inhibitors or similar medications | | 5 | Severe hypotension | | 6 | Untreated or severe hyperkalemia |
|
| interactions | Direct renin inhibitors may interact with diuretics, potassium-sparing diuretics, potassium supplements, ACE inhibitors, and ARBs, increasing the risk of hyperkalemia. This is not an exhaustive list; consult a physician or pharmacist for specific interactions. |
| warnings and precautions | Close monitoring of blood pressure and renal function is crucial. Regular potassium level checks are necessary. Caution is required when using direct renin inhibitors in combination with other antihypertensives. Dosage adjustments may be required to minimize the risk of adverse effects (e.g., hypotension or hyperkalemia). Patient education regarding symptoms like dizziness or swelling is essential. |
| additional informations | Relatively new in the antihypertensive market. Different drug formulations have varying mechanisms of action and side-effect profiles. Individual patient needs, risks, and benefits must be assessed by a physician. |
