Need an MRI? Ask for NAC + bicarb

MRI contrast dye can damage kidneys. A new meta-analysis (study of studies) has found that two approaches are better than one in preventing this damage. N-acetylcystein (NAC, or Mucomyst®) plus bicarbonate-based IV fluid reduced the risk of damage by 35%. The authors say this combo treatment should be used for all high-risk patients—including those with CKD.

Read the abstract » | (added 2011-02-24)

Tags: Chronic kidney disease

CKD education saves lives

A new study from Taiwan found that people who got CKD education were about 3 times less likely to need dialysis during the study period (about a year), and more than 5 times more likely to live than a control group that did not receive the education.

Read the abstract » | (added 2011-02-24)

Tags: Chronic kidney disease