Your kidneys remove waste and excess substances from the bloodstream, including the medications you take. When kidney function is impaired, your body may struggle to eliminate certain drugs, leading to an increased risk of toxicity, adverse side effects and complications. Understanding which medications can negatively impact your kidney health—and finding alternatives—can help you maintain your well-being.
Cholesterol Medications
Cholesterol-reducing medications such as statins, are commonly prescribed to reduce the risk of heart disease. However, those drugs can create adverse effects if you have kidney disease as they’re processed by your liver and excreted by your kidneys.
If you have impaired kidney function, statins may accumulate in your body, increasing your risk of muscle damage and liver complications. If you need cholesterol medication, talk with your doctor about adjusting the dosage or consider alternative medications. There are newer cholesterol-lowering drugs, such as PCSK9 inhibitors, that may be safer to use if you have kidney issues.
Diabetes Medications
Managing your blood sugar is crucial, but some diabetes medications can harm your kidneys. Metformin is commonly used to manage type 2 diabetes but can increase your risk of lactic acidosis if you have kidney disease. Certain classes of diabetes drugs, such as sulfonylureas, aren’t filtered as effectively by your kidneys, which may result in low blood sugar.
If you require diabetes medication, your healthcare provider may adjust your dosage. You may also need to switch to a kidney-friendly medication or different classes of drugs that are gentler on your kidneys, such as SGLT2 inhibitors.
Herbal Supplements and Vitamins
While herbal supplements and vitamins are often marketed as natural remedies, some can negatively impact kidney disease. Some herbal products, including teas, have compounds that can stress your kidneys or cause dehydration. Some vitamins, including Vitamin C and A, can accumulate in your body if you have reduced kidney function, increasing your risk for toxicity. Consult your doctor before starting or discontinuing supplement or vitamin use. They may recommend specific dosage adjustments or safer alternatives to avoid harming your kidneys.
Antibiotic Medications
Drugs such as aminoglycosides and vancomycin can cause kidney damage or worsen existing kidney problems if used improperly. If you need an antibiotic, talk with your doctor about selecting an option that’s easier on your kidneys.
Anti-Microbial Medications
Anti-microbial medications, including antifungals and antiviral drugs, can also have adverse reactions on your kidneys. They can cause kidney damage when taken in higher doses for prolonged periods. Discuss the risks and benefits of anti-microbial treatment with your healthcare provider. In some cases, your doctor may need to closely monitor your kidney function during treatment.
How to Talk to Your Doctor About Medication Safety
Open communication with your healthcare provider is essential when managing medications and kidney disease. Advocating for safer medication options allows you to create a treatment plan that prioritizes your kidney health and overall well-being.
Here are some tips for ensuring medication safety:
- Share your full medical history, including past kidney issues and current conditions.
- Ask your doctor about potential kidney risks for any prescribed medication.
- Discuss dosage adjustments or alternative treatments that may be safer for your kidneys.
- Keep a list of all medications and supplements and review it with your doctor regularly.
- Monitor any new symptoms and report them promptly.
Balancing Kidney Treatment and Health with Embassy Healthcare
While certain medications and supplements may pose risks, there are usually alternatives you can take to keep your kidneys safe. By working closely with your healthcare provider and remaining proactive about your treatment plan, you can optimize your medication use without compromising your kidney function.
At Embassy Healthcare, we’re dedicated to supporting you or your loved one through personalized care and comprehensive treatment options. If you have kidney disease and need assistance with medication management, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us to learn more about our Renal program.
