Be aware of the risks of nephrotoxicity when prescribing amoxicillin and third-generation cephalosporins

Amoxicillin and third-generation cephalosporins are widely used in the prevention and treatment of established infections. These broad-spectrum antibiotics are mainly excreted via urine and are considered relatively safe. However, several reports have indicated that substantial nephrotoxicity (e.g. acute interstitial nephritis and crystal nephropathy) occurs with amoxicillin and several cases of nephrotoxicity have been reported with ceftriaxone. While corticosteroids have been shown to improve kidney function in some patients with acute interstitial nephritis, close monitoring of kidney function for acute kidney injury can lead to an early diagnosis and recovery. Strategies preventing acute kidney injury can also be implemented.