Objective To investigate the effect of norepinephrine infusion at 0.03-0.3 μg·kg-1 ·min-1 on renal function in patients undergoing kidney transplantation. Methods Thirty-two ASA Ⅲ or Ⅳ patients aged 22-64 yr weighing 44-88 kg undergoing kidney transplantation were studied. Dialysis was performed within 36 h before operation. Blood pressure was fairly stable. Combined spinal-epidural anesthesia (CSEA) was performed. Spinal anesthesia was performed at L2,3 interspace and hyperbaric 0.5% bupivacaine 10-15 mg was injected into the subarachnoid space. The upper level of sensory block measured by pin-prick reached T6. Epidural catheter was placed at T11,12 interspace and 1% ropivacaine was given intermittently. The patients were randomly allocated into preoperative baseline level (increase or decrease amplitude ＜ 10% of baseline level) by dopamine or norepinephrine infusion during operation. Venous blood samples and urine samples were obtained at the end of operation and 12 h after operation for determination of serum concentrations of cystatin C and β2-microglobulin and urine α1- and β2-microglobulin concentrations. Urine was collected and the volume was recorded. Meanwhile the consumption of furosemide administration during the 12 h after operation was recorded. Results The two groups were comparable with respect to age, M/F sex ratio, body weight, the volume of urine and fluid infused, and the consumption of furosemide. There was no significant difference in serum cystatin C and β2-microgiobulin and urine α1- and β2-microglobulin concentratious, urine volume and consumption of furosemide administration between the transplantation without adverse effect on kidney allograft function.