The headline “eight pills you shouldn’t take because they damage your kidneys” is too broad. Many medicines can affect kidney function, but that doesn’t mean everyone should avoid them. Some are essential and can be used safely with the right dose and monitoring.
Examples that deserve particular caution include:
Ibuprofen and other NSAIDs
Naproxen and other NSAIDs
Diclofenac and other NSAIDs
High-dose aspirin (more than 325 mg/day)
Lithium
Some antibiotics, depending on the drug and kidney function
Some antivirals, particularly certain drugs used for HIV
Oral sodium-phosphate bowel preparations, which can cause serious kidney problems in susceptible people.
N
National Kidney Foundation
+1
The biggest everyday concern
NSAID painkillers such as ibuprofen and naproxen can reduce blood flow through the kidneys. The risk is greater with high doses, prolonged use, dehydration, existing kidney disease, heart disease, or certain blood-pressure medicines.
N
National Kidney Foundation
+1
Importantly, low-dose aspirin prescribed for cardiovascular protection is different from high-dose aspirin used for pain. You shouldn’t stop prescribed aspirin without discussing it with your clinician.
N
National Kidney Foundation
If you tell me the eight specific pills mentioned in the article, I can go through them one by one and tell you which genuinely pose a kidney risk, which are generally safe, and who needs to be cautious.
N
Sources
