How Nephrotic Syndrome Medications Work

Nephrotic syndrome is a kidney disorder characterized by excessive loss of protein in the urine, leading to hypoalbuminemia and edema. The primary goal of treatment is to reduce proteinuria and alleviate symptoms.

Corticosteroids (Gold Standard)

• Prednisone is the most commonly used corticosteroid for treating nephrotic syndrome.

• Corticosteroids work by reducing inflammation in the kidneys and decreasing proteinuria.

• They are effective in inducing remission in patients with minimal change disease, a common cause of nephrotic syndrome.

Alternatives to Corticosteroids

• Immunosuppressive drugs, such as Cyclophosphamide and Azathioprine, are used for patients who do not respond to corticosteroids or have a relapse.

• Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) or Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) can help reduce proteinuria by decreasing intraglomerular pressure.

• Eculizumab, a complement inhibitor, is used for patients with atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) or membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis (MPGN).