The headline “Eight pills you shouldn’t take because they damage your kidneys” is misleading. There isn’t a universal list of medications that everyone should avoid. Many medicines can affect the kidneys only in certain situations, such as high doses, long-term use, dehydration, or existing kidney disease. Some are essential treatments and should not be stopped without medical advice.
Examples of medications that can pose kidney risks include:
- NSAID pain relievers
- Examples: ibuprofen, naproxen, diclofenac.
- Risk increases with frequent use, dehydration, heart failure, or chronic kidney disease.
- Certain antibiotics
- Some, such as aminoglycosides (e.g., gentamicin), can affect the kidneys and may require monitoring.
- Some antiviral medications
- A few antivirals can affect kidney function, especially in people with reduced kidney function.
- Lithium
- Used to treat certain mental health conditions. Long-term use can affect kidney function in some people.
- Some chemotherapy drugs
- Certain cancer treatments can be toxic to the kidneys and require close monitoring.
- Diuretics (“water pills”)
- These can contribute to dehydration or electrolyte imbalances that may affect the kidneys if not used appropriately.
- ACE inhibitors and ARBs
- Examples include lisinopril and losartan.
- These medicines can temporarily change kidney function, but they are also kidney-protective for many people with conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure. Doctors often monitor kidney function after starting them.
- Certain acid-reducing medications
- Long-term use of some proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), such as omeprazole, has been associated with certain kidney problems in some people, although the overall risk is low.
How to protect your kidneys
- Take medications only as directed.
- Stay hydrated unless your healthcare provider has advised fluid restriction.
- Tell your healthcare provider if you have kidney disease before starting new medications.
- Avoid combining over-the-counter pain relievers without medical advice.
- Have kidney function checked if you take medications that require monitoring.
If you’re taking a specific medication and are concerned about its effect on your kidneys, tell me its name and dose, and I can explain the known risks and any recommended precautions.
