This study was designed to examine the effects of combined administration of the angiotensin receptor blocker (AT1RB), valsartan & the angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEI), ramipril on renal function in rats with liver cirrhosis. This animal model was induced by giving gradually increased intra-gastric doses of carbon tetrachloride (CCI4). - .
Thirty male albino rats weighing 150-200 grams were used through this study. Rats were divided as the following: Group (I) : formed of 6 non-cirrhotic
control rats. Group (H) : comprised 6 cirrhotic as-
citic control rats. Group (III) : Cirrhotic ascitic rats
treated with ramipril in a
dose of 2.5mg/kg/day for 2
weeks.
Group (IV) : Cirrhotic ascitic rats treated with valsartan in a dose of 20mg/kg/day for 2 weeks.
Group (V): Cirrhotic ascitic rats treated with ramipril & valsartan combination for 2 weeks.
Daily urine volume & body weight were assessed to follow up the development & progress of ascites. Urinary & plasma sodium & potassium were measured. In addition plasma renin activity (PRA) & serum creatinine were estimated. In cirrhotic ascitic rats combination therapy with ramipril & valsartan was more efficacious than either monotherapy in improving kidney function & salt & water retention. Ramipril is as equally effective as valsartan at ameliorating the decline in renal function & salt