Which medication class should be monitored for renal function in patients?

Monitoring renal function in patients taking medications is crucial because certain classes of drugs can have significant adverse effects on the kidneys. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are particularly known for this risk. They can lead to acute kidney injury, especially in patients who are dehydrated or have pre-existing renal insufficiency. NSAIDs can inhibit renal blood flow due to their effect on prostaglandins, which are crucial for maintaining normal kidney function. This makes it essential to regularly check renal function in patients who are prescribed NSAIDs to prevent potential complications.

While other classes of medications, such as antibiotics, antidepressants, and antihypertensives, also require monitoring of kidney function under certain circumstances, NSAIDs are especially well-documented for their direct impact on renal health, making their monitoring a standard practice among healthcare providers.