What could be a consequence of not lowering the antibiotic dosage in renal insufficiency?

In cases of renal insufficiency, the kidneys are not able to effectively filter and excrete medications, including antibiotics. If the dosage is not lowered in such patients, the antibiotic can accumulate in the body, leading to increased drug levels. This accumulation significantly raises the risk of side effects and adverse reactions, as patients may experience toxicity related to either the drug itself or its metabolites.

For example, many antibiotics can cause nephrotoxicity, neurotoxicity, or other harmful effects if given in standard doses without considering renal function. Monitoring renal function and adjusting doses accordingly is critical to minimize the potential for such adverse reactions and ensure patient safety.

In contrast, maintaining a standard dosage could lead to improved outcomes in patients without renally compromised function, but for those with renal issues, it jeopardizes their safety by increasing the likelihood of experiencing harmful side effects. Thus, not adjusting the antibiotic dosage in the presence of renal insufficiency can have serious consequences for the patient's health.