Nephrotoxicity is a poisonous effect of some substances, both toxins and medication, on the kidney. There are various forms of toxicity. It should not be confused with the fact that some medications have a predominantly renal excretion and need their dose adjusted for the decreased renal function (e.g. heparin).

The nephrotoxic effect of most drugs is more profound in patients who already

Types of toxicity

Drugs that interfere with the glomerular filtration rate:

• Various non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g. diclofenac)
• ACE inhibitors

Drugs that cause interstitial nephritis or affect the tubules:

• Aminoglycoside antibiotics (e.g. gentamicin)

Drugs that cause diabetes insipidus:

• lithium salts
• amphotericin B

Some drugs affect renal function in various ways.

Specific nephrotoxics

• Radiocontrast