stella
Kidney DiseaseJanuary 2024Summary reviewed June 2026

What Researchers Found Testing BI 690517 for Chronic Kidney Disease

Scientists tested a new drug called BI 690517 in people with chronic kidney disease who were already taking standard medications. The drug reduced protein in urine by up to 39%, a sign that kidney damage may be slowing down.

What the trial was testing

The trial enrolled 714 patients with kidney disease. The study was sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim and tracked outcomes across the full group of patients who matched the trial's eligibility profile.

It was initial testing (phase 2). Trials at this stage are designed to produce evidence regulators and physicians can act on — not just observations to follow up later.

What the results showed

BI 690517 reduced protein in urine by up to 39% in people with chronic kidney disease.

Lancet (London, England) · 2024 · NCT05182840

These findings — that the 10 mg dose lowered protein spillage in urine, a marker of kidney damage — were published in the Lancet (London, England) and represent the headline result of the study.

Researchers tracked outcomes across 714 patients enrolled in the trial. The result was consistent enough across the group that the team felt confident reporting it.

What this means for patients

For patients with kidney disease, this result changes the calculus on what to ask their care team about. Whether it changes day-to-day care depends on factors like disease subtype, prior treatments, and where the patient is in their care journey.

What you can do now

This was an initial testing study and BI 690517 is not yet FDA-approved. The drug showed promise in reducing protein spillage in urine, which can indicate slowing kidney damage. About 1 in 7 people had elevated potassium levels, though most didn't need treatment for it. Ask your kidney doctor about approved medications that protect kidney function, and whether similar trials might be right for you.

Eligibility for the treatments mentioned above depends on specific test results and clinical history. Bring this summary, the trial name, and your most recent labs or pathology report to your next visit.