Fenoldopam Mesylate for the Prevention of Contrast-Induced Nephropathy

Abstract

Contrast-induced nephropathy, which occurs in 1% to 15% of all patients undergoing invasive angiographic procedures and in as many as 50% of patients with preexisting renal insufficiency or diabetes mellitus, is one of the most common causes of hospital-acquired acute renal failure.^1-7 The development of contrast-induced nephropathy after diagnostic coronary angiography and percutaneous intervention is associated with prolonged hospitalization, marked increases in morbidity and early and late mortality, and costs.^4-8 Other than hydration,^9,10 most prior studies of measures to prevent contrast-induced nephropathy have either been neutral,¹¹ found deleterious effects,^12-15 or in the case of N-acetylcysteine, reported conflicting results.^16-19