N-acetylcysteine in the prevention of contrast-induced nephropathy.
OBJECTIVE
Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) is a common clinical problem that is growing in importance as an increasing number of tests and procedures that utilize contrast media are performed.


METHODS
The biological and pharmacological properties of n-acetylcysteine (NAC) are reviewed, as well as the current literature relevant to the ability of NAC to prevent CIN.


RESULTS
After publication of a seminal study by Tepel et al. in 2000, there has been a surge in interest regarding the ability of NAC to reduce the risk for CIN. Since then a large number of studies, mostly with relatively small sample sizes, have been published.


CONCLUSIONS
The results have been remarkably varied with some studies finding great efficacy with NAC but most finding no significant benefit.
Fishbane
Steven
S
Winthrop-University Hospital, Mineola, New York 11501, USA. sfishbane@winthrop.org
D000111:Acetylcysteine / Q000737:chemistry / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D058186:Acute Kidney Injury / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000517:prevention & control*; D003287:Contrast Media / Q000009:adverse effects*; D016166:Free Radical Scavengers / Q000737:chemistry / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans
D003287:Contrast Media; D016166:Free Radical Scavengers; D000111:Acetylcysteine