Risk factors for acyclovir-induced acute renal failure:
(1) excessive dosing, including large bolus doses
(2) rapid administration
(3) delayed recognition
(4) fluid restriction
(5) pre-existiing renal impairment, which may be missed in the elderly
Manifestations of the acute renal failure:
(1) rising serum creatinine and declining urine output
(2) crystalluria with birefringent needle-shaped crystals
Recommendations:
(1) Carefully calculate the dose, especially in the obese for whom a weight-based calculation may over-estimate the dose.
(2) Make sure that the patient is well-hydrated. Hydrate the patient prior to dosing if necessary.
(3) If given intravenously, then infuse the drug slowly (an hour or more).
(4) Closely monitor the patient's renal function after drug administration. Discontinue therapy and evaluate the patient if there is a sudden deterioration in renal function.
(5) Consider alkalinizing the urine.
