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Assessing Renal Dysfunction Incidence Related to Intravenous Acyclovir Usage
Marwa Said Aljahwari1, Mohammad Abobakr Alghazali2, Aya Said Alsaidi3
1Pharmacy Department, NMC Healthcare, Muscat, Oman.
Sultan Qaboos University Medical Journal
|August 4, 2026
Summary
Acute kidney injury (AKI) affects over a third of patients receiving intravenous acyclovir. Non-Omani patients and those on multiple nephrotoxic drugs face higher AKI risks, highlighting the need for targeted preventive strategies.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Pharmacology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Intravenous (IV) acyclovir is crucial for treating viral infections.
- Nephrotoxicity is a known complication of IV acyclovir therapy.
- Understanding risk factors for acute kidney injury (AKI) is essential for patient safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of AKI in patients receiving IV acyclovir.
- To identify risk factors associated with AKI development.
- To explore preventive strategies for IV acyclovir-induced nephrotoxicity.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective cohort study at Khoula Hospital, Muscat, Oman.
- Included 99 patients aged 12-80 years receiving IV acyclovir (Jan 2019 - Dec 2023).
- Excluded patients with pre-existing renal disease or elevated baseline creatinine.
Main Results:
- The incidence of AKI was 34.3% (34/99 patients).
- Non-Omani nationality (OR=5.46) and use of concomitant nephrotoxic medications were significantly associated with AKI.
- Dose reduction and hydration with slow infusion were employed in AKI cases.
Conclusions:
- Nationality and concurrent nephrotoxic drug use are significant risk factors for AKI.
- Non-Omani patients on multiple nephrotoxic agents exhibit increased susceptibility to AKI.
- Targeted preventive measures are crucial for high-risk patient groups.
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