1. The renal handling and effects of S(+)- and R(-)-ibuprofen have been studied in the isolated perfused kidney (IPK) of the rat. 2. Both ibuprofen enantiomers were extensively reabsorbed and accumulated in the kidney in a concentration-dependent manner. No pharmacokinetic differences were observed between the two enantiomers. 3. S(+)-ibuprofen concentrations ranging from 0.25 to 25 micrograms ml-1 (1.2 to 120 microM) caused a decrease in urinary flow, glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and electrolyte excretion. Urinary pH and excretion of glucose were not influenced. R(-)-ibuprofen concentrations ranging from 2.5 to 25 micrograms ml-1 (12 to 120 microM) also decreased urinary flow and electrolyte excretion. This decrease, however, was less than observed with S(+)-ibuprofen. GFR, urinary pH and glucose excretion were not affected by R(-)-ibuprofen. Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) concentrations of 133 ng ml-1 reversed the effects on renal function of both enantiomers. 4. Very high S(+)- and R(-)-ibuprofen concentrations (greater than 400 micrograms ml-1) resulted in an increase in urinary flow and fractional excretion of sodium, chloride, potassium, glucose and calcium. 5. It is concluded that the pharmacokinetic behaviour of ibuprofen in the kidney is not stereoselective. Relatively high concentrations of both enantiomers increased the urinary flow and electrolyte excretion in a nonstereoselective manner. Lower concentrations of S(+)-ibuprofen decreased urinary flow and electrolyte excretion. The pharmacologically inactive R(-)-ibuprofen was also able to affect renal function in a similar way, but at different concentrations. These effects on renal function are probably caused by inhibition of PGE2 synthesis.