Sodium Bicarbonate Does Not Prevent Contrast-Induced Nephropathy

Incidence of contrast-induced nephropathy and long-term adverse events was similar to that for sodium chloride.

The incidence of contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) ranges from 2% in low-risk patients to 50% in high-risk patients. In a randomized, controlled, single-blind study, researchers evaluated the effect of sodium bicarbonate for the prevention of CIN in adult patients with stable renal disease who were referred for coronary angiography at a single U.S. center. Inclusion criteria were age ≥18, calculated glomerular filtration rate (GFR) <60 mL/minute per 1.73 m², and presence of one or more of the following risk factors: age >75, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, or history of congestive heart failure. During the 13-month study period, 353 patients were randomized to receive sodium bicarbonate or sodium chloride, each administered at 3 mL/kg for…

Reviewing Author

John A. Marx, MD, FAAEM, FACEP