Role of N-acetylcysteine in the prevention of radiocontrast-induced nephropathy.
OBJECTIVE
To examine the role of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) in the prevention of radiocontrast-induced nephropathy (RIN).


METHODS
A literature search of MEDLINE (1966-December 2001) was performed using the following search terms: N-acetylcysteine, nephropathy, acute renal failure, and radiocontrast.


METHODS
Pertinent English-language animal and human studies were reviewed.


RESULTS
Few small animal trials have demonstrated that NAC significantly prevents the development or reduces the severity of acute renal failure. Two human studies demonstrated NAC significantly reduces the occurrence of RIN.


CONCLUSIONS
NAC may reduce the occurrence of RIN in high-risk patients. Further large-scale studies are needed to corroborate findings from earlier trials.
Department of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University/Medical College of Virginia School of Pharmacy, PO Box 980533, Richmond, VA 23298-0533, USA. dbrophy@vcu.edu
Donald F
DF
Brophy
D000111:Acetylcysteine / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D058186:Acute Kidney Injury / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D003287:Contrast Media / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans
D003287:Contrast Media; D000111:Acetylcysteine