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Prevention
By Mayo Clinic staffAcute kidney failure is often impossible to prevent. But you may reduce your risk by following these suggestions:
- Don't abuse alcohol or drugs, including over-the-counter pain medications such as aspirin, acetaminophen and ibuprofen. Avoid long-term exposure to heavy metals, such as lead, as well as to solvents, fuels and other toxic substances.
- Carefully follow all of your doctor's recommendations for managing any chronic medical condition that increases your risk of kidney failure.
If you're at high risk of kidney damage induced by contrast dye used for certain X-rays — for example, if you have diabetes or multiple myeloma — your doctor may prescribe a dose of acetylcysteine before the procedure. This medicine can help prevent acute kidney failure under these circumstances.
