Abstract

THE HIDDEN THREAT: UNRAVELING DRUG-INDUCED NEPHROTOXICITY

Shanmuganathan D. K.*, Dinesh Karthick M., Arun R. and Dhanush G.

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Abstract

Drug-induced nephrotoxicity (DIN) is a leading cause of acute and chronic kidney injury, posing a significant challenge in clinical practice. The kidneys' unique physiology, including high blood flow and extensive drug metabolism, makes them particularly susceptible to toxic insults. This review explores the epidemiology, risk factors, and normal kidney function to provide a foundation for understanding nephrotoxicity. Various drug classes, such as aminoglycosides, NSAIDs, contrast agents, chemotherapeutics, and immunosuppressants, induce kidney damage through mechanisms like tubular toxicity, oxidative stress, altered renal hemodynamic, and immune-mediated injury. Identifying high-risk patients and understanding these mechanisms are critical for early intervention and prevention. Future research should focus on developing safer drug formulations, refining renal protective strategies, and improving clinical monitoring to reduce the incidence of DIN and improve patient outcomes.

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