If my gfr is 43 is it safe to have a ct with contrast? i have read that you can take n-acetylcysteine to help protect your kidneys?

DYE and CKD: Patients with chronic kidney disease (ckd) are at increased risk for acute renal failure (akd) following dye (d) exposure, that's temporary. Methods to avoid include stopping diuretics, hydrating patients well before the procedure and using drugs to prevent it. N-acetylcysteine has not been shown to proven akd after d in all cases. Discuss CKD with physician who will do the angiogram for more info.

OK if chronic GFR: N-acetylcysteine is offered at some centers though its usefulness in preventing kidney damage is debatable. With a GFR >30, ct contrast is safe, but your risk is higher than someone with normal kidney function. Hydration can help prevent kidney damage and certain specific brands of contrast are thought to be lower risk (such as visipaque). Please avoid contrast if in acute kidney failure.

Need to be : Cleared by your nephrologist. If ok best to get hydration. N-acetylcysteine can help. 600-1200 mg dose orally 12 hours apart, half before and half after the scan is typical. Stop metformin for 48 hours after your scan. Use nonionic contrast. Better yet get ultrasound if it will answer the clinical question in your case. Ask your doctors.