The headline “Eight pills you shouldn’t take because they damage your kidneys” is an oversimplification. Many medications can affect the kidneys, but the risk depends on the specific drug, the dose, how long it’s taken, and whether someone already has kidney disease or other risk factors.
Examples of medications that are known to pose kidney risks in some situations include:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen and naproxen, especially with frequent use, dehydration, or existing kidney disease.
- Certain antibiotics, including some aminoglycosides (such as gentamicin) and, less commonly, other antibiotics in susceptible people.
- Some antiviral medications, depending on the specific drug and dose.
- Certain chemotherapy drugs, which may require close kidney monitoring.
- Some diuretics (“water pills”), which can contribute to dehydration or electrolyte imbalances if not used appropriately.
- Lithium, a medication for bipolar disorder, which can affect kidney function with long-term use in some people.
- Calcineurin inhibitors, such as tacrolimus and cyclosporine, used after organ transplants and for some autoimmune conditions.
- High-dose or long-term proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), such as omeprazole, have been associated with certain kidney problems in rare cases, though they remain appropriate for many people when prescribed.
A few important points:
- Never stop a prescribed medication without discussing it with your healthcare provider. The benefits often outweigh the risks, and many medications can be used safely with the right monitoring.
- Kidney risk is generally higher if you have chronic kidney disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, are older, or are dehydrated.
- If you have kidney disease, ask your clinician or pharmacist before taking any new prescription, over-the-counter medicine, or herbal supplement.
If you have a specific medication in mind, tell me its name, and I can explain whether it has known kidney risks and what precautions are recommended.
