Renin Assay

Plasma Renin Activity (PRA) Test

How To Prepare

For 2 to 4 weeks before the test, you will be asked to stop taking medicines that can affect the test, such as diuretics, estrogens, and high blood pressure medicines (especially beta-blockers and ACE inhibitors). Your health professional may have you take other medicines for a few weeks that will not change the renin test results.

Do not eat natural black licorice for 2 weeks before the test. Do not eat or drink foods that contain caffeine the day before the test. Natural licorice and caffeine can change the test results.

For 3 days before a renin test, you may be asked to follow a special low-sodium diet.

You will be asked to not eat or drink anything for 8 hours before the test.

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Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS	Last Updated: September 15, 2006
Medical Review:	Caroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine David C.W. Lau, MD, PhD, FRCPC - Endocrinology & Metabolism
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