In addition to dietary changes and dialysis, certain prescriptions and over-the-counter medications can help you manage chronic kidney disease.
Erythropoietin
Your kidneys produce erythropoietin, a hormone that regulates your body’s red blood cell count. Kidney disease and kidney failure reduce the amount of red blood cells in your body, resulting in anemia. That can cause fatigue, shortness of breath, heart problems and cognitive impairment.
Dialysis usually includes a low dose of erythropoietin to compensate for the lower levels in your system. You’ll receive erythropoietin via an IV injection if you’re on hemodialysis. If you receive peritoneal dialysis, the hormone will be injected directly into your skin.
Iron Supplements
You must have enough iron in your blood for erythropoietin to create red blood cells. Without it, your body may create red blood cells that are too small to carry enough oxygen throughout your body.
Iron deficiency exacerbates the symptoms of chronic kidney disease and increases weakness and fatigue. Your nephrologist may recommend iron supplements to prevent those side effects.
You can receive iron through your IV during dialysis or take it orally. Consult your physician before taking any new supplements to determine your correct dosage.
Phosphate Binders
Kidney disease can increase your body’s production of parathyroid hormones, which draws phosphate into your bloodstream. Healthy kidneys filter excess phosphate through urination, but kidney disease limits that ability.
High levels of phosphate damage your kidneys, calcify soft tissue and cause itching. It’s important to avoid foods that contain phosphate while you’re on dialysis. Taking phosphate binders before meals reduces the amount of phosphate your body absorbs through food.
ACE Inhibitors
Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors widen blood vessels to regulate your blood pressure. High blood pressure damages the blood vessels in your kidneys.
ACE inhibitors relax your arteries and veins to lower your blood pressure and protect your kidneys from further damage. That type of prescription medication can also decrease the amount of fluid in your body tissue and lower hormones that contribute to high blood pressure.
Diuretics
If you have chronic kidney disease, your kidneys won’t remove water from your system effectively. Your nephrologist or physician may recommend diuretics to help your body eliminate the excess fluid that causes swelling in your hands, feet and ankles. Diuretics also lower high blood pressure and potassium levels, which negatively impact your kidney health.
While diuretics are available over the counter, it’s important to discuss them with your doctors before starting the medication. The dosage depends on the type of diuretic, as well as your age, weight and underlying conditions.
Empower Renal at Embassy Healthcare
Our Empower Renal program is centered around improving your overall wellness while addressing your kidney health. We offer 24/7 nursing care and have a variety of therapists on staff. We specialize in clinical coordination and will work closely with your doctors and specialists to ensure you receive consistent care.
Call 216-378-2050 to learn more about our renal care.
