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How Medications Impact Kidney Health
Your kidneys are one of the hardest-working organs in your body, filtering about 50 gallons of blood every single day! But did you know that the medications you take—whether prescribed or over-the-counter—can have a direct impact on your kidney health? As a pharmacist, I see it all the time, and it’s something people rarely think about.
Painkillers like ibuprofen (Advil/Motrin), naproxen (Aleve), and even some prescription anti-inflammatories can reduce blood flow to the kidneys, making them work harder. If you already have high blood pressure or diabetes, this extra stress can lead to long-term kidney damage. Certain antibiotics and contrast dyes used in medical imaging can also pose a risk, especially in people with reduced kidney function.
On the flip side, some blood pressure medications—like ACE inhibitors (e.g., lisinopril) and ARBs (e.g., valsartan)—are actually kidney-protective and may be prescribed for people with diabetes or kidney disease.
So what can you do? First, be mindful of over-the-counter medications—especially if you take them frequently. Second, always check with your pharmacist if you have kidney issues or take multiple medications. We can help ensure your medications are dosed appropriately and safe for your kidneys. Lastly, hydration plays a huge role in kidney health, but there’s a fine line between drinking enough and drinking too much. Next time, I’ll dive into hydration myths and how caffeine, alcohol, and even certain medications affect your kidneys. Stay tuned!
