Many people with type 2 diabetes take medication to protect their kidneys and keep their blood pressure under control.
Several different drugs are often combined to reduce the risk of complications, according to HealthDay.
A new study presented at the European Renal Association Congress in Glasgow examined how different treatments affect patients with diabetic kidney disease.
More than 31,000 patients
Researchers analyzed health data from more than 31,000 adults with type 2 diabetes between 2016 and 2021.
Also read: More young adults are developing oral cancer – here’s how to protect yourself
All participants received two types of medication that are commonly used to protect kidney function.
Nearly four out of ten patients also received a third type of blood pressure medication known as DCCB.
This medication is often prescribed as an additional treatment when further blood pressure reduction is needed.
The researchers followed the patients for approximately three and a half years and compared their outcomes.
Also read: Millions may have chronic kidney disease without knowing it – here are the symptoms
33 percent higher risk
The researchers believe the medication may affect blood flow in the kidneys in a way that increases strain on the organs. However, this has not yet been proven.
Patients who received DCCB alongside their other treatment had a 33 percent higher risk of developing serious kidney problems than patients who did not receive this class of medication.
The researchers emphasize that the study only shows an association and does not prove that the medication is the cause.
They therefore recommend further research before any changes are made to treatment guidelines.
Also read: New weight-loss drug could outperform Ozempic, trial suggests
Sources: HealthDay and European Renal Association.
Also read: Laura Dern shares the most important lesson she learned from her mother’s battle with illness