A steady-state colistin plasma concentration (Css) > 2.42 mg/L is an independent risk factor of nephrotoxicity. This has been validated in a prospective cohort of patients treated with colistin methanesulfonate. Nephrotoxicity was significantly more frequent and occurred earlier in patients with Css > 2.42 mg/L. Colistin has a narrow therapeutic window. Therapeutic drug monitoring is recommended in patients receiving colistin therapy.