Sam Mirfendereski
1 
, Mahboobe Taghipour
2 , Farshad Yadollahi
3 , Hadi Taghavinejad
4* , Mahdieh Ahmadnia
4 1 Department of Radiology, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
2 Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine Hajar Hospital, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
3 Departments of Medicine, Medical School, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
4 Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
Abstract
Contrast-induced acute kidney injury (CI-AKI) is a potential complication of medical imaging procedures that use contrast media. It is important to identify and manage risk factors for contrast-induced nephropathy and to monitor patients for signs of renal damage after contrast administration. N-acetylcysteine (NAC) can prevent CI-AKI through multiple mechanisms of action, including reducing oxidative stress, improving renal hemodynamics, reducing inflammation, reducing apoptosis and fibrosis, reducing oxidative stress-induced DNA damage, reducing tubular cell injury, and reducing renal tubular cell apoptosis. However, the exact mechanisms of action may vary based on the specific study or context. Further research is needed to fully elucidate the molecular mechanisms of NAC in preventing CI-AKI.
Implication for health policy/practice/research/medical education:
N-acetylcysteine can improve renal hemodynamics by increasing nitric oxide production, reducing vasoconstriction, increasing prostaglandin synthesis, reducing oxidant stress-mediated renal tubular injury, and reducing inflammation. These effects can help prevent CI-AKI by improving renal blood flow and oxygenation. However, the exact mechanisms of action may vary based on the specific study or context. Further research is needed to fully elucidate the molecular mechanisms of NAC in improving renal hemodynamics.
Please cite this paper as: Mirfendereski S, Taghipour M, Yadollahi F, Taghavinejad H, Ahmadnia M. Administration of N-acetylcysteine for contrast-induced acute kidney injury; an updated mini-review. J Nephropharmacol. 2024;13(1):e11658. DOI: 10.34172/npj.2023.11658.