Renin inhibitors - Mechanisms of action

Abstract

Renin inhibitors are antihypertensive drugs which block the first step in the renin-angiotensin system. Their mechanism of action differs from that of angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin receptor antagonists, but like these drugs, renin inhibitors interrupt the negative feedback effects of angiotensin II on renin secretion. This increases renin concentrations which may attenuate the inhibition of the renin-angiotensin system by these therapies. Renin inhibitors may interfere with measurements of renin in plasma.