What are the treatments for proteinuria in kidney disease?
Proteinuria (protein in the urine) is a key sign of kidney damage, and reducing it can help slow kidney disease progression. There are several treatment approaches available.
Medications currently used:
- ACE inhibitors or angiotensin-receptor blockers (ARBs) to help Show Full Answer
What are the treatments for proteinuria in kidney disease?
Proteinuria (protein in the urine) is a key sign of kidney damage, and reducing it can help slow kidney disease progression. There are several treatment approaches available.
Medications currently used:
- ACE inhibitors or angiotensin-receptor blockers (ARBs) to help control blood pressure and reduce protein leakage
- SGLT2 inhibitors, another type of medication that supports kidney protection
- Immunosuppressive drugs for some people, depending on the cause
- Corticosteroids to calm immune system activity that may be damaging the kidneys Newer and emerging treatments:
- Sparsentan and iptacopan (Fabhalta) — FDA-approved options that help reduce urine protein
- Sibeprenlimab — currently under FDA priority review, this monthly injection reduced proteinuria by over 50% in trials
- Atacicept — a weekly injection that reduced proteinuria by 46% in trials; FDA approval is being sought for 2026 Lifestyle strategies that may also help:
- Limiting salt intake to manage blood pressure
- Eating a balanced diet and avoiding excess protein
- Staying active with gentle, regular exercise
- Avoiding NSAIDs like ibuprofen, which can affect kidney function
- Getting regular urine and blood tests to monitor kidney health
Always talk with your kidney specialist before making any changes to your treatment plan or diet — they can help find the best approach for your specific situation.
June 11