title: Prescribing for patients on dialysis.
abstract: The pharmacokinetics of a drug may be altered in patients with renal impairment who require dialysis. Some drugs are contraindicated. The drug's clearance and therapeutic index determine if a dose adjustment is needed. A lower dose or less frequent dosing may be required. Consult a reference source or the patient's nephrologist before prescribing. Start at a low dose and increase gradually. If possible give once-daily drugs after dialysis.
authors.affiliation: Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney.
authors.forename: Brendan
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Smyth
authors.affiliation: Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney.
authors.forename: Ceridwen
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Jones
authors.affiliation: Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney.
authors.forename: John
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Saunders
keywords: haemodialysis; kidney; pharmacokinetics; renal disease