An iron chelate, ferric nitrilotriacetate (Fe‐NTA), induces acute proximal tubular necrosis as a consequence of lipid peroxidation and oxidative tissue damage, that eventually leads to high incidence of renal adenocarcinomas in rodents. This study was designed to investigate the effect of quercetin, a bioflavonoid with antioxidant potential, on Fe‐NTA‐induced nephrotoxicity in rats. One hour after a single intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of Fe‐NTA (8 mg iron/kg), a marked deterioration of renal architecture and renal function was observed. Fe‐NTA induced a significant renal oxidative stress demonstrated by elevated thiobarbituric acid reacting substances (TBARS) and reduction in activities of renal catalase, superoxide dismutase and glutathione reductase. Pretreatment of animals with quercetin (2 mg/kg, i.p.) 30 minutes before Fe‐NTA administration markedly attenuated renal dysfunction, morphological alterations, reduced elevated TBARS and restored the depleted renal antioxidant enzymes. These results clearly demonstrate the role of oxidative stress and its relation to renal dysfunction, and suggest a protective effect of quercetin on Fe‐NTA‐induced nephrotoxicity in rats.