Antiproteinuric Effect of Valsartan and Lisinopril

Inclusion Criteria: Male or female outpatients aged 18-70 years, Chronic nephropathy, as defined by a serum creatinine concentration of > 3 mg/dL or calculated glomerular filtration rate of > 30 mL/min/1.73 m2. Persistent proteinuria, as defined by urinary protein excretion exceeding 1g/24 h. (for a minimum of three months ). Normotensive and hypertensive patients not adequately controlled with or without treatment (controlled: <125/75 mmHg). Written informed consent to participate in the study prior to any study procedures. Exclusion Criteria Immediate need for renal replacement therapy. Treatment resistant oedema. Need for treatment with corticosteroids, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or immunosuppressive drugs. Proteinuria greater than 10g /24h and/or hypoalbuminaemia less than 28g/L. Renovascular hypertension Malignant hypertension MI, cerebrovascular accident within last year, severe peripheral vascular disease, CHF, chronic hepatic disease. Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin II receptors blockers within one month prior to randomization. A serum creatinine concentration >265 ümol/L Other protocol-defined exclusion criteria may apply.