Can Tamiflu (Oseltamivir) cause Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) after 4 days of treatment?

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Last updated: February 8, 2025View editorial policy

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From the Research

Tamiflu (Oseltamivir) and Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)

  • There is evidence to suggest that oseltamivir can cause Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) in certain patients, particularly those with pre-existing renal impairment or those undergoing continuous venovenous hemodiafiltration (CVVHDF) 1.
  • A study found that patients on CVVHDF due to acute kidney injury had 4-to 5-fold higher oseltamivir carboxylate concentrations, suggesting that the drug can accumulate in the plasma of patients with renal failure 1.
  • Another study reported a case of granulomatous interstitial nephritis associated with influenza A: H1N1 infection, which was treated with oseltamivir phosphate (Tamiflu) 2.
  • However, it is not clear if oseltamivir can cause AKI in patients with normal renal function after 4 days of treatment.
  • A study on the pharmacokinetics and safety of oseltamivir in patients with end-stage renal disease treated with automated peritoneal dialysis found that oseltamivir was well tolerated, but the disposition of the drug was poorly understood in this patient population 3.
  • The mechanisms of delayed onset type adverse reactions to oseltamivir, including renal disorders, are thought to be related to the inhibition of the host's endogenous neuraminidase 4.

Key Findings

  • Oseltamivir can accumulate in the plasma of patients with renal failure, particularly those undergoing CVVHDF 1.
  • Patients with pre-existing renal impairment or those undergoing CVVHDF may require dose reductions and monitoring of plasma levels of oseltamivir carboxylate 1.
  • The disposition of oseltamivir is poorly understood in patients with end-stage renal disease, and further studies are needed to optimize dosing in this patient population 3.
  • The mechanisms of adverse reactions to oseltamivir, including renal disorders, are thought to be related to the inhibition of the host's endogenous neuraminidase 4.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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