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Reversible acute renal allograft dysfunction due to gabapentin
B J Gallay1, A M de Mattos, D J Norman
1Division of Transplant Medicine, Oregon Health Sciences University, Portland 97201, USA.
Transplantation
|August 5, 2000
Summary
Gabapentin, used for neuropathic pain, can cause reversible kidney dysfunction in renal transplant patients. Caution is advised, especially with other medications affecting blood vessels.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Pharmacology
- Transplantation
Background:
- Gabapentin is a widely used analgesic for neuropathic pain.
- Its favorable side effect profile makes it suitable for transplant recipients.
Observation:
- A renal transplant recipient with a stable graft experienced acute renal dysfunction.
- This occurred after initiating gabapentin for diabetic neuropathy pain.
Findings:
- Gabapentin therapy was associated with reversible acute kidney injury.
- The mechanism may involve vasoconstriction of renal afferent arteries.
Implications:
- Clinicians should exercise caution when prescribing gabapentin to transplant recipients.
- Concurrent use of other renal vasoconstrictors may increase risk.