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Acetylcysteine and contrast media nephropathy
1Medizinische Klinik IV, Universitätsklinikum Benjamin-Franklin, Freie Universität, Berlin, Germany. tepel@zedat.fu-berlin.de
Current Opinion in Nephrology and Hypertension
|August 21, 2002
Summary
Acetylcysteine, combined with hydration, effectively prevents contrast-induced nephropathy. This treatment protects kidney function in patients undergoing procedures with radiographic contrast media.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Radiology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Radiographic contrast media use is increasing for diagnostics and therapeutics.
- Contrast agent-induced nephropathy poses risks of patient impairment and increased healthcare costs.
- Prevention of contrast-induced nephropathy is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of acetylcysteine in preventing contrast agent-induced nephropathy.
- To assess the role of antioxidants in mitigating renal damage from radiographic contrast media.
Main Methods:
- Review of experimental data and clinical studies.
- Analysis of two prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled trials.
- Focus on prophylactic oral administration of acetylcysteine with hydration.
Main Results:
- Acetylcysteine (600 mg twice daily) with hydration prevented renal function decline post-contrast administration in patients with moderate renal insufficiency.
- Prophylactic acetylcysteine demonstrated significant protective effects.
Conclusions:
- Acetylcysteine combined with hydration is the recommended treatment to prevent radiographic contrast media-induced nephropathy.
- This regimen offers a protective strategy against contrast-induced kidney injury.