Nitric oxide (NO) is associated with gentamicin (GENTA) nephrotoxicity and the renal function recovery after suspension of GENTA treatment in rats.

GENTA nephrotoxicity is likely to be caused, among other factors, by an increase of vasoconstrictors or a decrease of vasodilators such as NO. Few days after discontinuing GENTA treatment, the renal function is recovered, but if risk factors like advanced age, previous renal dysfunction, simultaneous use of other nephrotoxic drugs or dehydration are present, severe and progressive renal disease occurs. The aim of this study was to evaluate the renal function in rats during GENTA treatment and after its suspension as well as its relationship with NO.