Medications That Cause Kidney Disease | See Signs and Symptoms

Medications can be essential for managing various health conditions, but certain drugs can have negative effects on kidney function. Over time, some medications may cause kidney damage, leading to conditions like chronic kidney disease (CKD). Recognizing the signs and symptoms of kidney problems early can help prevent further damage and improve overall health.
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What Are Medications That Can Cause Kidney Disease?

Certain medications, particularly when used over long periods or in high doses, can harm the kidneys. These include over-the-counter pain relievers like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), certain antibiotics, and medications used to treat conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and infections. Some chemotherapy drugs, immunosuppressants, and even some blood pressure medications can also contribute to kidney damage.

Kidney damage from medications is often referred to as drug-induced kidney injury (DIKI). It can occur suddenly or develop over time, depending on the medication and the dosage. In some cases, kidney function may improve once the drug is stopped, but in others, the damage may be permanent. Monitoring kidney health regularly is crucial for people on medications that are known to affect the kidneys.

How to Recognize the Signs and Symptoms of Kidney Disease

Kidney disease caused by medications often develops gradually, which makes it challenging to spot at first. Some early symptoms include fatigue, swollen ankles, and changes in urination frequency or appearance. As the disease progresses, individuals may experience nausea, shortness of breath, and high blood pressure.

It’s important to regularly monitor kidney function if taking medications known to have nephrotoxic effects. Routine blood tests like serum creatinine and urine tests can help detect changes in kidney function early. If any of the symptoms mentioned above occur, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.

Related Programs for Kidney Health Monitoring

Many healthcare providers offer special programs or resources for individuals taking medications that may affect kidney health. Some pharmacies provide kidney function testing kits, and certain insurance plans may cover additional monitoring services for people on high-risk medications. These services can help catch kidney problems early and prevent long-term damage.

Additionally, several non-profit organizations offer support and educational materials for individuals with medication-related kidney issues. These resources provide guidance on diet, lifestyle changes, and treatment options to support kidney health.

Learn More About Medications and Kidney Disease

To learn more about how medications can impact kidney function, consider exploring online resources dedicated to kidney health. Organizations like the National Kidney Foundation and Mayo Clinic provide in-depth guides and updates on the latest research related to kidney disease. Staying informed about kidney health is essential, especially for individuals who rely on long-term medications.

A List of Medications That Have Potential Affects on Kidneys

Here’s a concise bulleted list of medications known to potentially cause kidney damage, based on information from GoodRx:

  • Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Commonly used for pain and inflammation, these can reduce blood flow to the kidneys, increasing the risk of kidney damage, especially with prolonged use or in individuals with existing kidney issues.

  • Diuretics: Often prescribed for high blood pressure and fluid retention, diuretics can lead to dehydration, which may impair kidney function.

  • Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) Inhibitors: Used to treat high blood pressure and heart conditions, ACE inhibitors can affect kidney function, particularly when combined with other medications like diuretics or NSAIDs. Verywell Health

  • Contrast Dyes: Iodinated contrast agents used in imaging procedures can cause kidney damage, especially in individuals with pre-existing kidney problems.

  • Vancomycin: An antibiotic used to treat serious infections, vancomycin can be nephrotoxic, particularly when used in high doses or for extended periods.

  • Aminoglycosides: A class of antibiotics that can cause kidney damage, especially with prolonged use or in high doses.

  • HIV Medications: Certain antiretroviral drugs, such as tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, can be harmful to the kidneys.

  • Other Antivirals: Some antiviral medications have been associated with kidney damage.

  • Zoledronic Acid: Used to treat bone diseases, this medication can cause kidney issues, particularly in those with pre-existing kidney conditions.

  • Calcineurin Inhibitors: Medications like cyclosporine and tacrolimus, used to prevent organ transplant rejection, can impair kidney function. GoodRx

 

If you're concerned about the impact of any medication on your kidney health, it's essential to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and monitoring.

Learn More About Kidney Health Monitoring Programs and Kidney Disease Symptoms

Citations

  1. "Which Drugs are Harmful to Your Kidneys?" National Kidney Foundation. https://www.kidney.org
  2. https://www.goodrx.com/health-topic/kidneys/damaging-medications?srsltid=AfmBOoqyvIS3zfkyJGv5hW2PAj2JyPTM8UfTJvAKzaXNFSP-a_NdjFhc