8 Everyday Medicines That Can Affect Kidney Health
The headline “why are they still sold?” is misleading. Medicines that can affect the kidneys are often very useful and safe when used appropriately. The risk depends on the drug, dose, duration, kidney function, hydration, and other medicines you’re taking.
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Here are important examples:
Ibuprofen and other NSAIDs — regular or high-dose use can reduce blood flow to the kidneys and cause acute kidney injury or worsen chronic kidney disease.
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National Kidney Foundation
Naproxen and other NSAIDs — the same kidney concerns apply, particularly with prolonged use, dehydration, or existing kidney disease.
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NIDDK
Some antibiotics — certain antibiotics are eliminated through the kidneys and may require dose adjustments; some can also directly cause kidney injury.
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National Kidney Foundation
Some antiviral medicines — kidney function may determine the appropriate dose, and some antivirals can cause kidney-related adverse effects.
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National Kidney Foundation
Proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs) such as omeprazole — long-term use has been associated with kidney problems, although the relationship isn’t always clear.
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National Kidney Foundation
Lithium — prolonged treatment can affect kidney function and requires monitoring, particularly because lithium is cleared through the kidneys.
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National Kidney Foundation
Diuretics (“water pills”) — medicines such as furosemide can be extremely beneficial, but excessive dosing can contribute to dehydration and electrolyte abnormalities.
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National Kidney Foundation
ACE inhibitors and ARBs — these can cause an initial reduction in kidney filtration and increase potassium, but they’re often kidney-protective and are commonly prescribed to slow kidney disease.
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National Kidney Foundation
The combination that deserves special attention
One particularly important combination is an ACE inhibitor or ARB + a diuretic + an NSAID. Along with dehydration, this combination can substantially increase the risk of acute kidney injury.
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National Kidney Foundation
Don’t stop your medicines because of a viral warning
Some of the drugs on this list can actually protect your kidneys, heart, or other organs when appropriately prescribed. The goal isn’t to avoid every medicine that has a potential kidney effect—it is to use the right medication at the right dose and monitor kidney function when appropriate.
If you have kidney disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, heart failure, or take several medications, ask your doctor or pharmacist to review all prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements you’re taking.
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Bottom line: The biggest everyday medication concern for many people is unnecessary or prolonged NSAID use, especially when dehydrated or when combined with certain blood-pressure medicines and diuretics. Never stop a prescribed medicine without discussing it with your healthcare professional.
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