Role of N-acetylcysteine in the prevention of radiocontrast-induced nephropathy.

Objective: To examine the role of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) in the prevention of radiocontrast-induced nephropathy (RIN).

Data Sources: A literature search of MEDLINE (1966-December 2001) was performed using the following search terms: N-acetylcysteine, nephropathy, acute renal failure, and radiocontrast.

Study Selection: Pertinent English-language animal and human studies were reviewed.

Data Synthesis: Few small animal trials have demonstrated that NAC significantly prevents the development or reduces the severity of acute renal failure. Two human studies demonstrated NAC significantly reduces the occurrence of RIN.

Conclusions: NAC may reduce the occurrence of RIN in high-risk patients. Further large-scale studies are needed to corroborate findings from earlier trials.