It is important to keep up to date with your annual blood test to monitor your kidney function.
Please remember to book an appointment for your annual blood test.
We will try to remind you with a text.
Failure to have your blood test is unsafe and we may not be able to issue you with more than 2 weeks of tablets without knowing your kidney function and electrolytes.
Ace-Inhibitors
Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) inhibitors reduce blood pressure by relaxing your blood vessels.
Examples: Enalapril, Lisinopril, Ramipril
Adverse effects:
- Kidney damage - it is important to monitor your kidney function regularly throughout treatment
- High Potassium - this can increase the risk of your heart becoming irregular and is associated with increased risk of death
The NICE Guidelines say to check kidney function and electrolytes in the blood:
- 1 to 2 weeks after starting ACEi tablet
- 1 to 2 weeks after each dose increase
- Annually thereafter
ARBs
Angiotensin-2 Receptor Blockers (ARBs) help relax your blood vessels and lower your blood pressure
Examples: Candesartan, Losartan, Irbesartan
Adverse effects:
- Kidney damage - it is important to monitor your kidney function regularly throughout treatment
- High Potassium - this can increase the risk of your heart becoming irregular and is associated with increased risk of death
The NICE Guidelines say to check kidney function and electrolytes in the blood:
- 1 to 2 weeks after starting ARB tablet
- 1 to 2 weeks after each dose increase
- Annually thereafter
If you are on the following medications please ensure you have booked your blood test as per the information above to monitor your kidney function:
ACE:
- Benazepril (Lotensin)
- Captopril
- Enalapril (Vasotec)
- Fosinopril
- Lisinopril (Prinivil, Zestril)
- Moexipril
- Perindopril
- Quinapril (Accupril)
- Ramipril (Altace)
- Trandolapril
ARB:
- Azilsartan (Edarbi)
- Candesartan (Atacand)
- Eprosartan
- Irbesartan (Avapro)
- Losartan (Cozaar)
- Olmesartan (Benicar)
- Telmisartan (Micardis)
- Valsartan (Diovan)