Several medications can damage the kidneys in certain situations, but the risk depends on the specific drug, the dose, how long it’s taken, and a person’s kidney function and other health conditions. It’s not accurate to say everyone should avoid these medications.
Here are eight categories commonly associated with kidney injury:
- Ibuprofen and other NSAIDs (such as Naproxen)
- Can reduce blood flow to the kidneys, especially in people with dehydration, chronic kidney disease, heart failure, or older age.
- Diclofenac
- Another NSAID with similar kidney risks, particularly when used regularly or at high doses.
- Certain antibiotics
- Examples include Gentamicin and Vancomycin. These are usually monitored carefully because they can affect the kidneys.
- Lithium
- Long-term use can lead to kidney damage in some people, so regular blood tests and kidney function monitoring are recommended.
- Tacrolimus and Cyclosporine
- These medications are essential after organ transplantation or for certain autoimmune diseases but can affect kidney function.
- Some chemotherapy drugs
- For example, Cisplatin is well known to have potential kidney toxicity, which is why patients receive close monitoring.
- Certain antiviral medications
- Examples include Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate in some patients, particularly those with other kidney risk factors.
- High-dose or prolonged use of proton pump inhibitors
- Medications such as Omeprazole have been linked to rare kidney inflammation and, with long-term use, an increased risk of chronic kidney disease in some studies, although the absolute risk is low.
To help protect your kidneys:
- Take medications exactly as prescribed.
- Stay well hydrated unless your clinician has advised otherwise.
- Avoid taking multiple NSAIDs together.
- Tell your healthcare provider if you have existing kidney disease.
- Have kidney function monitored when taking medications known to affect the kidneys.
If you have a specific medication in mind, I can explain its kidney risks and whether those risks apply to your situation.
