[Renal risks of dietary complements: a forgotten cause]

Rev Med Suisse. 2014 Feb 26;10(419):498-503.
[Article in French]

Abstract

The use of dietary complements like vitamins, minerals, trace elements, proteins, aminoacids and plant-derived agents is prevalent in the general population, in order to promote health and treat diseases. Dietary complements are considered as safe natural products and are easily available without prescription. However, these can lead to severe renal toxicity, especially in cases of unknown pre-existing chronic kidney disease (CKD). In particular, Chinese herbs including aristolochic acid, high doses of vitamine C, creatine and protein complements may lead to acute and chronic renal failure, sometimes irreversible. Dietary complement toxicity should be suspected in any case of unexplained renal impairement. In the case of pre-existing CKD, the use of potentially nephrotoxic dietary complements should be screened for.

Publication types

  • English Abstract
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Complementary Therapies / adverse effects
  • Dietary Supplements / adverse effects*
  • Drug Contamination
  • Drug-Related Side Effects and Adverse Reactions / etiology
  • Humans
  • Renal Insufficiency, Chronic / etiology*
  • Risk Factors
  • Somatotypes