Medications that lower blood pressure can also significantly slow the progression of kidney disease. Two types of blood pressure-lowering medications, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), have been shown effective in slowing the progression of kidney disease and reducing protein in your urine.  Talk to your doctor to make certain your blood pressure medication is helpful, not harmful, to your kidneys.  How medications work and their impact on your body will vary from person to person.  Some medications are also not recommended for those on Dialysis, such as Clonidine.  Here are the medications I take to keep my blood pressure under 120/80, keep my Uric Acid controlled (prevent gout), and lower my Cholesterol. 

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Here are my Doctor Prescribed medications:

• Amlodipine Besylate (10mg): This is a calcium channel blocker used to relax and widen blood vessels, reducing blood pressure and the strain on your kidneys.

• Aspirin (81mg): While not explicitly discussed in the context of CKD medications in the provided excerpts, aspirin is commonly used as an antiplatelet agent to help prevent blood clots and is often recommended for cardiovascular health in some individuals. This information is not directly from your sources, so you may want to verify this with your healthcare provider.

• Hydrochlorothiazide (25mg): This is a thiazide diuretic often used in combination with other blood pressure medications to reduce fluid retention and lower blood pressure, particularly in the earlier stages of CKD.

• Clonidine (0.4mg): The sources mention that some medications like Clonidine may not be recommended for those on dialysis. Clonidine is a medication used to lower blood pressure.

• Allopurinol (300mg): While not explicitly detailed in the provided excerpts regarding kidney disease treatment, Allopurinol is commonly used to manage high uric acid levels and prevent gout. This information is not directly from your sources, so you may want to verify this with your healthcare provider.

• Jardiance (Empagliflozin) (10 mg): Jardiance is an SGLT2 inhibitor, a newer medication shown to help lower blood sugar levels, reduce the risk of heart failure, and slow the progression of CKD.

• Spironolactone (50mg): This is a potassium-sparing diuretic designed to help manage fluid levels while maintaining potassium, which is critical for CKD patients. It is often used in combination with other diuretics.

• Lisinopril (5mg): This is an ACE inhibitor that works by relaxing blood vessels, lowering blood pressure, and reducing kidney strain. It is particularly beneficial for slowing CKD progression, especially in people with diabetes, and can also reduce protein leakage in the urine.

• Metoprolol Succinate ER (300mg): This is a beta-blocker that lowers blood pressure by reducing the effects of adrenaline on your heart, causing it to beat slower and with less force. It's beneficial for CKD patients with coexisting heart conditions.

• Atorvastatin (20mg): This is a statin, a key medication in lowering LDL (bad cholesterol) levels to reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke, common complications for individuals with CKD.

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In addition, my doctors and dietitian have recommended I take:

• Renadyl: Renadyl (www.Renadyl.com) is a probiotic supplement that contains a unique blend of beneficial probiotics and prebiotics designed specifically for kidney patients. It is often recommended by renal dietitians and healthcare teams to support gut health in individuals with CKD and may help remove toxins that build up in the gut when kidney function declines. The author's renal dietitian recommended it.

• ProRenal+D: ProRenal+D (MyProRenal.com) is a renal dietitian-recommended multivitamin designed specifically for individuals with CKD. Its tailored nutrient profile provides a blend of essential vitamins and minerals in safe and effective amounts for those with impaired kidney function. It includes vitamin D3 to support bone health and immune function, B-complex vitamins for energy and nerve function, and antioxidants like vitamins C and E. It is formulated without potassium and phosphorus to avoid mineral imbalances.

• CoQ10: CoQ10 may help improve symptoms and reduce the risk of heart-related complications. 

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It is important to remember that how medications work and their impact can vary from person to person. Always discuss your medications and any changes with your healthcare team.