Finerenone Slows CKD Decline and Cuts Cardiovascular Risk

A series of major clinical trials has demonstrated that the drug finerenone significantly slows kidney function decline and reduces cardiovascular risks in a broad range of patients with chronic kidney disease, including those without diabetes. The findings, presented at the European Renal Association Congress in Glasgow and simultaneously published in three leading medical journals, suggest the medication could become a foundational therapy for millions globally.

Chronic kidney disease affects approximately 850 million people worldwide and is projected to become the fifth leading cause of premature death by 2040. While diabetes is a common cause, most individuals with CKD do not have diabetes and have had few effective treatment options. The new research indicates finerenone, a nonsteroidal mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist, addresses this unmet need.

The pivotal FINDCKD trial involved 1,584 patients with nondiabetic CKD from 24 countries. When added to standard care, finerenone significantly slowed the decline in kidney function compared to a placebo. The drug also reduced the combined risk of kidney failure, CKD progression, hospitalization for heart failure, or...