Nephrotoxicity related to new therapeutic compounds

Toxic nephropathy is an important cause of reversible renal injury. This article focuses on the nephrotoxicity of several new therapeutic compounds. Selective cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitor is associated with sodium retention, hypertension, ankle edema, and acute renal failure. The incidence of renal complication is similar to conventional nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Bisphosphonates, especially when used in high dose for prolonged duration, can cause toxic acute tubular necrosis and renal failure. Pamidronate is also associated with a specific form of collapsing focal segmental glomerulosclerosis similar to one found in patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. Acyclic nucleoside phosphonate, a new group of antiviral agents, can cause Fanconi-like syndrome and progressive renal impairment. On the other hand, indinavir, a potent protease inhibitor for the treatment of HIV infection, can cause crystalluria, renal stone, acute tubular obstruction and chronic interstitial nephritis. Intravenous immune globulin and hydroxyethyl starch, a new plasma expander, are associated with acute renal failure with characteristic renal histology known as osmotic nephrosis. In short, physicians should be cautious about possible renal toxicity during the use of any new therapeutic agents.