Chinese Herbal Medicine Induced Nephrotoxicity
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Abstract
For centuries, Chinese herbal medicine has been used for various purposes, including treating several diseases, aiding in weight reduction, and as food ingredients. The enduring belief is that natural products are safer than modern drugs containing synthetic chemicals. Alternative medicine remains widespread in Thailand today. However, herbs containing compounds like aristolochic acid, other plant alkaloids, and additives from manufacturing processes can cause renal failure. Due to the underreporting of adverse effects, Chinese herbal medicine is often used without caution and with little awareness of potential risks. Renal failure from these herbs can result from mechanisms such as Smad signaling, p53-mediated signaling, and the action of organic anion transporters, leading to apoptosis, fibrosis, and tubular atrophy in the kidneys. Several studies have found that using steroids to treat patients with renal failure caused by Chinese herbal medicines can help slow the progression of kidney failure and reduce the need for renal replacement therapy.
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