Medications that can affect kidney health (when misused or in high risk people)
1. NSAID painkillers
(e.g., ibuprofen, diclofenac, naproxen)
Ibuprofen
Diclofenac
- Can reduce blood flow to kidneys
- Risk increases with dehydration, older age, or long-term use
2. Certain antibiotics
- Especially strong or high-dose types
- Can stress kidneys in vulnerable patients
3. Diuretics (“water pills”)
Furosemide
- Can cause dehydration or electrolyte imbalance if not monitored
- Often safe when medically supervised
4. ACE inhibitors / ARBs (blood pressure drugs)
Lisinopril
Losartan
- Can slightly change kidney function initially
- Often protect kidneys long-term in diabetes or hypertension
5. Some contrast dyes (used in scans)
- Can stress kidneys in high-risk patients
- Doctors monitor carefully before use
6. Lithium (psychiatric medication)
Lithium
- Long-term use can affect kidney function
- Requires regular monitoring
7. Certain antivirals or chemotherapy drugs
- Used under strict medical supervision
- Risk depends on dose and condition
8. Herbal or “natural” supplements (important!)
- Not regulated like medicines
- Some have been linked to kidney injury (varies widely)
