IgA nephropathy occurs when IgA-a protein that helps the body fight infections-settles in the
kidneys. IgA deposits may cause the kidneys to leak blood and sometimes protein in the urine.
Proteinuria (abnormal amounts of protein in urine) can be a sign of kidney damage. Current
treatments for IgA nephropathy is limited to Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE) inhibitor
medications with fish oil. ACE Inhibitors, also called ACEI medications, slows the
angiotensin converting enzyme so that blood vessels can be relaxed.
This study involves the study drugs, Acthar and Lisinopril (an ACEI medication routinely
given for high blood pressure).
In previous clinical studies, some subjects with IgA nephropathy have experienced reductions
in proteinuria with consistent use of Acthar. Acthar is approved by the Food and Drug
Administration (FDA) and used to treat patients with proteinuria.
The purpose is to study the safety and effectiveness of the study drug Acthar given at
different doses.