Orlistat-induced oxalate nephropathy: an under-recognised cause of chronic kidney disease

BMJ Case Rep. 2017 Nov 12:2017:bcr2016218623. doi: 10.1136/bcr-2016-218623.

Abstract

Two patients developed kidney failure due to oxalate deposition in the kidney while taking orlistat. Cessation of orlistat was followed by partial recovery of kidney function. The mechanism by which orlistat causes hyperoxaluria and the management of orlistat-induced oxalate nephropathy is reviewed. We suggest that all patients taking orlistat are at risk of this condition, which may develop insidiously and is easily overlooked. Monitoring of kidney function of patients taking orlistat is warranted.

Keywords: Acute Renal Failure; Contraindications And Precautions; Metabolic Disorders; Obesity (nutrition); Renal System.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Anti-Obesity Agents / administration & dosage
  • Anti-Obesity Agents / adverse effects*
  • Calcium Oxalate / urine
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hyperoxaluria / chemically induced*
  • Hyperoxaluria / diagnostic imaging
  • Kidney Tubular Necrosis, Acute / chemically induced*
  • Kidney Tubular Necrosis, Acute / diagnostic imaging
  • Kidney Tubular Necrosis, Acute / pathology
  • Lactones / administration & dosage
  • Lactones / adverse effects*
  • Male
  • Microscopy
  • Obesity / drug therapy
  • Orlistat
  • Renal Insufficiency, Chronic / chemically induced*

Substances

  • Anti-Obesity Agents
  • Lactones
  • Calcium Oxalate
  • Orlistat