Renin Inhibitors

Aliskiren is a renin inhibitor. Renin inhibitors act at the beginning of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone chain. As a result Aliskiren has similar effects as ACE inhibitors and ARBs.  There is a lower risk of cough and angioedema when compared with ACE inhibitors; however, the teratogenic properties remain. Renin inhibitors are metabolized by CYP3A4 and as a result, carry many drug interactions.

Class Drugs

• Aliskiren

Class Mechanism of Action

Blocks conversion of angiotensinogen to angiotensin I

Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System - Inhibition of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system by individual drug classes

Class Applications

Hypertension

• Decreases pre-load and afterload

Class Adverse Effects

• Decreased risk of angioedema and cough when compared with ACE inhibitors

• Teratogenic, contra-indicated in pregnancy

• Hyperkalemia

• Diarrhea

• Metabolized by CYP3A4, so many drug interactions

Drug Table

Drug Name	Application	Comments	Image
Aliskiren			"Alice" "Karen"