Some medications, like painkillers, water pills (diuretics), antibiotics, and proton pump inhibitors, can hurt your kidneys. Your kidneys act like a water filter for your body. Just like a water filter cleans water, your kidneys remove waste and keep the right balance of fluids and minerals. It’s important to follow your doctor’s advice and not use medicines without proper guidance. If you don’t follow your doctor’s instructions or if you use illegal drugs, it can damage your kidneys.

Here are six common drugs that can harm your kidneys and what you can do to protect yourself.

Pain Medications

NSAIDs, or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, are often used to relieve pain, fever, or inflammation. Examples of NSAIDs include ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve), and aspirin. While these drugs are good for pain relief, taking them too often or in high doses can be bad for your kidneys.

NSAIDs can reduce the blood flow to your kidneys, which makes it harder for them to work properly. This is especially dangerous for people who already have kidney problems or are dehydrated. Doctors warn against using NSAIDs frequently or for long periods without checking with a doctor first. If you need pain relief often, ask your doctor about safer options, especially if you have a history of kidney problems.

Herbal Supplements

Herbal supplements might seem harmless because they are natural, but some of them can be harmful to your kidneys. Examples include certain high-dose supplements like aristolochic acid, which has been linked to severe kidney damage.

Other examples are herbal supplements such as St. John’s Wort, which can interfere with other medications, and licorice root, which can cause high blood pressure and stress the kidneys. Additionally, herbs like comfrey and ephedra (ma huang) have also been associated with kidney problems. Research suggests that these supplements can contain toxins or high doses of certain substances that your kidneys struggle to filter out, leading to kidney injury.

Generally, according to health experts, people with kidney disease should not use herbal supplements without first speaking with a doctor or a pharmacist. If you are taking herbal supplements, make sure to talk to your doctor, especially if you have existing kidney issues. Your doctor can help you determine which supplements are safe.

Antibiotics

Antibiotics are used to fight infections, but some of them can be toxic to your kidneys. Examples include aminoglycosides (Gentamicin, Tobramycin, and Amikacin). These are usually given for serious infections.

The problem with these antibiotics is that they can be directly toxic to kidney cells, especially when taken in high doses or for a long time. Older adults and people with kidney issues are especially at risk. If your doctor prescribes antibiotics, be sure to follow their directions carefully. Report any unusual symptoms, like reduced urination or swelling, which could mean trouble for your kidneys.

Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)

PPIs, or proton pump inhibitors, are drugs that reduce stomach acid. They are often used for treating acid reflux or ulcers. Examples include omeprazole (Prilosec), esomeprazole (Nexium), and pantoprazole (Protonix). These drugs can help relieve painful acid reflux, but taking them for a long time can harm your kidneys.

A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that people who use PPIs for a long time are more likely to develop chronic kidney disease. Doctors suggest that you only use PPIs when absolutely needed and look into other treatments, like antacids or lifestyle changes, to manage acid reflux.

Diuretics

Diuretics, also called water pills, are often used to treat high blood pressure, heart failure, or fluid buildup. Examples include furosemide (Lasix), hydrochlorothiazide (Microzide), and spironolactone (Aldactone). They work by helping your body get rid of extra salt and water through urine. However, if not monitored carefully, this can lead to dehydration, which can hurt your kidneys.

Dehydration reduces blood flow to the kidneys, therefore making it hard for them to do their job. If you are taking diuretics, make sure you drink enough water and talk to your doctor regularly to keep your kidneys healthy.

ACE Inhibitors and ARBs

ACE inhibitors and ARBs are drugs used to control high blood pressure and heart disease. Examples of ACE inhibitors include enalapril (Vasotec) and lisinopril (Zestril), while ARBs include losartan (Cozaar) and valsartan (Diovan). These drugs are effective for many people, but they can sometimes cause kidney issues, especially if taken in high doses or by those with existing kidney problems.

These medications can change how blood flows to the kidneys, leading to higher potassium levels and reduced kidney function. If you take these medications, it is very important to have your kidney function checked regularly. Your doctor may need to change your dose or switch to another medication if there are signs of kidney issues.

How to Protect Your Kidneys

The good news is that there are steps you can take to keep your kidneys healthy, especially if you are taking any of these medications. Here are some key tips:

Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help your kidneys flush out toxins. This is especially important if you are taking diuretics or NSAIDs.
Regular Check-Ups: Make regular appointments with your doctor to check on your kidney function, especially if you are taking any of the drugs we mentioned. Finding problems early can help prevent long-term damage.
Avoid Overusing Pain Relievers: If you find yourself needing NSAIDs or other pain relievers often, talk to your doctor. They might recommend a safer option.
Follow Prescription Directions: Never change your dosage without asking your doctor first. Drugs like ACE inhibitors, ARBs, or antibiotics need careful dosing to avoid harming your kidneys.
Ask About Alternatives: Sometimes, there are other treatments that are less harmful to your kidneys. Ask your doctor if there are different drugs or non-drug options that could work for you.

Symptoms of Kidney Damage

It’s important to know the signs that could mean your kidneys are in trouble. Here are some symptoms to look out for:

Swelling in Legs, Ankles, or Feet: If your kidneys aren’t working well, fluid can build up in your body, causing swelling.
Fatigue and Weakness: Damaged kidneys can’t filter waste properly, which means toxins stay in your blood, making you feel tired or weak.
Decreased Urination: If you notice less urine than usual or if your urine is very dark, this could be a sign of kidney trouble.
Shortness of Breath: Fluid buildup can sometimes affect your lungs, making it hard to breathe.
Persistent Nausea: When kidneys don’t filter toxins, they build up, which can make you feel sick to your stomach.

If you have any of these symptoms, see your doctor right away.

Your kidneys are important organs that keep your body healthy. Some medications can put stress on your kidneys, especially if used the wrong way or for too long. Always work with your doctor to find the safest options, especially if you already have health conditions that could affect your kidneys.

If Your Kidney Is in Danger, the Body Will Give You These Signs!