DRUG-INDUCED NEPHROTOXICITY - THE CRUCIAL ROLE OF RISK-FACTORS

Although the exact incidence of drug-induced nephrotoxicity is not kno wn, it is important for clinicians to be aware of the risks in certain patients and to know which drugs are the most commonly implicated. Th e latter include radiocontrast agents, aminoglycosides, nonsteroidal a nti-inflammatory drugs, and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors. Other medications also have nephrotoxic potential when they are prescr ibed in specific patient populations. Renal injury may be transient an d mild in many cases, but recognition of the patient at high risk and application of preventive measures are essential to avoid a severe and protracted course.