3. What are nephrotoxic chemicals and their effects on the body?

3.1 Nephrotoxic chemicals

The main nephrotoxic substances are :

• certain drugs (antibiotics, anti-inflammatories [aspirin], iodinated contrast media, immunosuppressants, antivirals, etc.);

• the majority of heavy metals; they accumulate in tubular cells, where they have a cellular toxicity on cellular organelles (mitochondria, lysosomes, and the endoplasmic reticulum) that strongly disrupts their functioning; they have a strong vasoconstrictive effect;

• haemolytic agents such as arsenates, chlorates, nitrites and nitrates;

• organic solvents (halogenated [CCl4], petroleum distillates, ethylene glycol, etc.);

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