In research, variables are crucial and worthy of careful attention. Reviewing the referenced materials, I found too many variables to make any clear judgments about hazards from ACE inhibitors. One variable of note is the lack of sound clinical research and a surfeit of articles authored by one or two doctors. One article emphasized that ACE inhibitors are "associated with" kidney problems of diabetics, not the cause of them. Another warned of concern for the possibility of hyperkalemia (which struck close to me personally, since I am congenitally hypokalemic and am treated with potassium enhancing medication). I found one reference to the importance of dealing with creatinine levels and watching it over time, but it seemed that kidney failure was related to stenosis of the arterioles in the kidneys more than their dissipation. So I will continue with my ACE-heavy treatment and wait until my next regular appointment with my nephrologist to initiate a discussion of the issues raised here. Perhaps others will hesitate to draw personal conclusions based on experiences of one patient or one doctor on the issues involved.

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