Renin-angiotensin system blockade in older adults with chronic kidney disease: A review of the literature

Purpose of review: We have reviewed the literature examining the benefits and harms of renin-angiotensin system (RAS) blockade in older adults, using studies which included patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) as well as those which included a broader patient population. Recent findings: We review the results of key trials which evaluate the impact of RAS blockade on renal outcomes, and those which address the impact of RAS blockade on more global outcomes (cardiovascular events and mortality). Many trials examining renal outcomes of RAS blockade excluded older patients or did not present age-stratified results, whereas trials which examined global outcomes often excluded patients with CKD. Most older patients with CKD have nonproteinuric nondiabetic CKD, thus differing from participants in trials which examined renal outcomes, which often included only patients with diabetes or proteinuria. Most studies did not address alternate outcomes which may carry greatest import for older patients, such as worsening comorbid illness or changes in functional status. Summary: The role of RAS inhibition for older patients with CKD remains unclear. Information on age-specific effects of RAS blockade on a range of different outcomes among older patients with CKD would improve our ability to assess the benefits and harms of RAS inhibition in this population.