The Hidden Dangers: How Medications Can Affect Your Kidneys
The kidneys are important organs that filter waste and maintain our body’s fluid balance. They also release hormones that help to regulate blood pressure at a normal level, and they play an important role in producing red blood cells in our body. Besides that, they are vital in producing the active form of vitamin D which is essential to promote strong and healthy bones.
In this article, we will discuss some common medications that will affect the kidney’s function. It’s important to understand and be aware of which medications may be harmful to the kidneys and precautions shall be taken to protect our kidneys.
Pain Relievers (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs-NSAIDs)
Some pain relievers, for example ibuprofen and naproxen, can harm the kidneys if taken frequently or in large doses. These medications relieve pain and help with inflammation.
However, it can be dangerous for those who have existing kidney problems or those who are dehydrated. Thus, we shall not take too much of pain relievers but to take them cautiously according to the dosage recommended by doctors.
Antibiotics
Certain antibiotics can hurt the kidneys through a variety of mechanisms. For example, some antibiotics can block the urine flow by producing crystals that cannot be broken down. Some antibiotics have substances that can damage certain kidney cells when they are excreted from the kidneys. There are also cases where some people develop allergic reactions towards antibiotics that will adversely affect their kidneys.
When antibiotics are used for a short period of time, they are generally safe. The risk of damage to kidneys is increased when antibiotics are used in high dosage or for a prolonged period. So, bear in mind that we should only take antibiotics when prescribed by doctors and we should strictly follow their medical advices.
Diuretics/Water Pills
Diuretics, or water pills, are usually prescribed by doctors to treat high blood pressure and swelling. They work by helping to excrete extra fluid in the body. However, some diuretics, like furosemide, can affect kidney function. This is because sometimes diuretics will dehydrate the body, disturbing the balance of electrolytes in the body and the blood flow to the kidneys which can be bad for the kidneys.
Thus, it is crucial for people taking diuretics to have regular monitoring of kidney function and electrolyte levels.
Contrast Dyes
In many cases, the use of a contrast dye is necessary while carrying out diagnostic tests such as CT scans, angiograms and MRIs to help doctors see certain body tissues or blood vessels better. However, it is important to know that sometimes these dyes can be harmful to the kidneys and will either cause kidney problems, or cause problems in patients with existing kidney disease. Thus, it is important to inform doctors if you have any kidney diseases before undergoing any imaging tests involving contrast dyes.
Antiviral Medications
Some antiviral medications, such as acyclovir and tenofovir, used to treat viral infections, can damage the kidneys. These medications can cause harms to the kidneys or reduce kidney function, especially when taken at high doses or for a long period. Antiviral medications can cause renal failure in many ways such as through crystal deposition in the kidneys as well as causing injury on the renal transporters and renal cells. Thus, it is imperative to have regular monitoring of kidney function if taking these antiviral medications.
Take away messages
While medications can be beneficial, it is crucial to understand the potential risks they pose to the kidneys. Be aware of which medications will affect kidney function and take necessary precautions to protect our kidneys. We shall always take medications according to the recommended dosage so as to reduce the risk of developing medication-related kidney problems and always talk to your doctors if you have any existing kidney diseases.
Reference:
1. National Kidney Foundation. (n.d.). Pain Medicines (Analgesics). Retrieved from https://www.kidney.org/atoz/content/painmeds_analgesics
2. American Association of Kidney Patients. (n.d.). Understanding Diuretics. Retrieved from https://aakp.org/dialysis/understanding-diuretics/
3. Radiological Society of North America. (2020). Contrast Materials. Retrieved from https://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info.cfm?pg=contrast-ct
4. National Kidney Foundation. (n.d.). Common Medicines Used for People with Kidney Disease. Retrieved from https://www.kidney.org/atoz/content/medications-kidney-disease
5. WebMD. (2022). What Meds Might Hurt My Kidneys? Retrieved from https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/medicine-hurt-kidneys
6. National Kidney Foundation. (n.d.). Contrast Dye and the Kidneys. Retrieved from https://www.kidney.org/atoz/content/Contrast-Dye-and-Kidneys#:~:text=Contrast dyes are often used,the way they normally should.
7. National Library of Medicine. (2005). Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15861345/#:~:text=Antiviral drugs cause renal failure,epithelial cells of the kidney.
