NSAIDs tied to increased risk of community-acquired acute kidney injury

January 16, 2025

Study details: This prospective study examined risk factors for community-acquired acute kidney injury (AKI) by analyzing serum creatinine levels in 512 patients visiting a university hospital's emergency department over 11 months. Patients with AKI were compared with age-, sex-, and admission date-matched controls. Data on medical history and medication use, including over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, were collected.

Results: AKI cases were significantly more likely to have used NSAIDs (26.0% vs. 18.0%, p = 0.001), especially OTC NSAIDs (23.3% vs. 15.9%, p < 0.001). Odds ratios of other associated factors:

• Recent vomiting, diarrhea, and urinary retention: 2.52, 1.30, and 1.92, respectively.
• Use of non-selective NSAIDs, RAAS blockers, and diuretics: 1.84, 1.63, and 1.53, respectively.
• History of diabetes, chronic kidney disease, and smoking: 1.42, 1.36, and 1.72, respectively.

Clinical impact: The study highlights the significant role of acute illness events and medication use, particularly OTC NSAIDs, in the development of community-acquired AKI. Physicians should be vigilant in monitoring patients' use of NSAIDs and other medications, especially during acute illnesses, to prevent AKI.

Source:

Ragnarsdotttir TH, et al. (2025, January). Eur J Intern Med. Prospective study of risk factors for community-acquired acute kidney injury. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39368861/