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Preventive effect of nicorandil on contrast-induced nephropathy: a meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials
Insights
Nicorandil significantly reduces contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) by 64% in patients undergoing contrast procedures. This medication offers a protective effect on renal function, presenting a new option for CIN prevention.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Cardiology
- Radiology
Background:
- Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) is a significant complication following angiocardiography and radiological procedures.
- Effective preventative strategies for CIN are crucial for patient safety and outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To comprehensively evaluate the efficacy of nicorandil in preventing contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN).
- To synthesize existing data on nicorandil's impact on renal function markers post-contrast exposure.
Main Methods:
- A systematic literature search was conducted across Medline/PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials up to April 2017.
- Four randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with a total of 730 participants were included in the meta-analysis.
Main Results:
- Nicorandil demonstrated a significant 64% reduction in the incidence of CIN compared to control groups (Risk Ratio = 0.36, 95% CI: 0.22-0.61).
- Treatment with nicorandil led to a significant decrease in serum creatinine levels.
- A non-significant trend towards reduced cystatin C levels was observed with nicorandil use.
Conclusions:
- Nicorandil effectively protects renal function and lowers the incidence of CIN in patients receiving contrast media.
- Nicorandil represents a valuable additional therapeutic option for the prevention of contrast-induced nephropathy.
Background:
Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) is a common and serious side-effect in patients undergoing angiocardiography or radiological procedures.
Aim:
To assess comprehensively the impact of nicorandil on CIN, by gathering currently available data.
Methods:
We searched three main electric databases (Medline/PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials) from inception through April 2017.
Results:
Four randomised controlled trials involving 730 participants were included. Pooled estimate showed that nicorandil significantly reduced the rate of CIN by 64% (risk ratio = 0.36, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.22-0.61, I2 = 31%), compared with control. Nicorandil also significantly decreased serum creatinine level compared with control (mean difference (MD) = -2.70%, 95% CI: -5.21 to -0.20 for percentage change; and standard MD = -0.30, 95% CI: -0.48 to -0.13 for absolute change from baseline). In comparison to control, nicorandil was associated with a non-significant trend towards decreased cystatin C (MD = -2.18%, 95% CI: -4.39 to 0.02 for percentage change; and MD = -0.08 mg/dL, 95% CI: -0.24 to 0.09 mg/dL for absolute change from baseline).
Conclusion:
Nicorandil can protect renal function and reduce the incidence of CIN in patients exposed to contrast medium. Nicorandil is an additional option in preventing CIN.
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