The 10 Worst Medications for Your Kidneys
- NSAIDS. NSAIDS, or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve), lead the list for drugs that cause kidney damage because of their widespread use.
- Vancomycin. Patients with severe methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections are often treated with the IV antibiotic, vancomycin.
- Diuretics. ...
What are the dangers of taking diuretics?
Usual side effects of diuretics include:
- Peeing more than usual.
- Dizziness.
- Tiredness.
- Headache.
- Gout.
- Difficulty getting an erection.
- Low potassium (unless you’re taking a potassium-sparing type of diuretic).
- Muscle cramps.
- Heart palpitations.
- Higher blood sugar in people with diabetes.
How do diuretics affect the kidneys?
How do diuretics affect the kidneys? Diuretics are sometimes called 'water tablets' because they can cause you to pass more urine than usual. They work on your kidneys by increasing the amount of salt and water that comes out through your urine. Too much salt can cause extra fluid to build up in your blood vessels, raising your blood pressure.
What medications are harmful to my kidneys?
Which Drugs are Harmful to Your Kidneys?
- Pain Medications. ...
- Alcohol. ...
- Antibiotics. ...
- Prescription Laxatives. ...
- Contrast Dye (used in some diagnostic tests such as MRIs) Some medical tests called "imaging tests" contain a type of dye called "contrast dye." Examples of imaging tests are MRIs ...
- Illegal Drugs. ...
Can too many diuretics cause kidney disease?
When taken properly, most diuretics will not affect your kidney function. Your kidneys may be affected, however, if you take diuretics and another medication known to cause harmful drug interaction symptoms.
What are the dangers of taking diuretics?
Side effects include increased urination and sodium loss. Diuretics can also affect blood potassium levels....Other possible side effects of diuretics include:Dizziness.Headaches.Dehydration.Muscle cramps.Joint disorders (gout)Impotence.
Why do diuretics worsen kidney function?
There are data to support the notion that loop diuretics have direct adverse affects on renal function and HF outcomes. Loop diuretics acutely can cause a decrease in glomerular filtration and reduce renal blood flow due to activation of the sympathetic renin-angiotensin-aldosterone systems [6,7].
Can long term use of diuretics cause kidney damage?
If it continues for a long time, the heart and arteries may not function properly. This can damage the blood vessels of the brain, heart, and kidneys, resulting in a stroke, heart failure, or kidney failure.
Should you take diuretics if you have kidney disease?
Conclusions. Diuretics are mainstays of therapy in patients with CKD, as they can treat edema as well as facilitate reductions in blood pressure.
Can kidney function ever improve?
You can improve your GFR and your kidney function by looking at your lifestyle, diet, and medications, and making certain changes. Your kidneys are your body's filtration system.
What medications are hard on the kidneys?
1) NSAIDS. NSAIDS, or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve), lead the list for drugs that cause kidney damage because of their widespread use.
What is the safest diuretic?
TUESDAY, Feb. 18, 2020 (HealthDay News) -- Patients taking a common diuretic to help lower blood pressure may be better off with a similarly effective but safer one, a new study suggests. Current guidelines recommend the drug chlorthalidone (Thalitone) as the first-line diuretic.
How much water should I drink on diuretics?
Don't alter the amount of fluid that you normally drink while taking this medicine (a normal amount is approximately 2.5 to 3.5pints (or 1.5 to 2litres) of fluid per day.
What drugs affect the kidneys the most?
Most street drugs, including heroin, cocaine and ecstasy can cause high blood pressure, stroke, heart failure and even death, in some cases from only one use. Cocaine, heroin and amphetamines also can cause kidney damage.
Who should not take diuretics?
Ask your doctor if you should avoid or be cautious using diuretics if you:Have severe liver or kidney disease.Are dehydrated.Have an irregular heartbeat.Are in the third trimester of pregnancy and/or have developed high blood pressure during your pregnancy.Are age 65 or older.Have gout.More items...•
What diuretic is safe in kidney disease?
Frequently‐administered potassium‐sparing diuretics are triamterene, amiloride, spironolactone and eplerenone.
Can diuretics cause high creatinine levels?
Diuretics can also be one of the reasons which is able to increase the level of creatinine in the blood of the patient.
How do diuretics work?
Diuretics work by blocking ion channels to help regulate the flow of water. Because of this, some of the most important things for you to know as a patient is the type of diuretic you are taking and whether you will need to monitor your potassium or sodium levels routinely.
What are the most common conditions that can cause kidney damage?
Some of the most common conditions that significantly damage kidney function would be type 2 diabetes, alcohol consumption, and smoking.
What exactly is kidney failure?
When your doctor says that you have kidney failure or chronic kidney disease, you may think the situation is much more serious than it actually is, since you know that you require at least one semi-functional kidney to be able to live.
What happens to the kidneys as you age?
As a person ages, the kidneys will start to become less and less effective at filtering out toxins and regulating the water-electrolyte balance within the body. As a result, parameters that are used to measure the function of the kidneys — like creatinine and GFR — will begin to change.
Why do kidneys help with hypertension?
These patients will almost always have hypertension as well, because the kidneys are one of the main organs to regulate blood pressure. In times of low blood pressure, the kidneys are able to secrete enzymes, like the ACE enzyme, to help increase the blood pressure. When there is damage like atherosclerosis along the blood vessels walls, the kidneys are able to increase the pressure in the vessels to help blood squeeze through the narrow space. Physiologically, this is a good thing so you can keep blood moving to vital organs but if this continues to happen without intervention from a doctor, it can lead to serious medical problems.
How to keep blood pressure under control?
Even if it may be much harder, dieting and exercise are much better at reducing your blood pressure and preventing you from more serious health complications, at least for significant numbers of patients. Even if those weight goals may seem out of reach, lifestyle choices over a few years can bring you closer and closer to independence from a diuretic.
Can creatinine cause kidney failure?
Creatinine will increase and GFR will begin to decrease. Even very mild fluctuations in these parameters can lead to stage 1 kidney failure. Most adults over the age of 50 likely already fall into this category, but that does not mean you need to rush into the nephrology department to schedule an urgent dialysis appointment. The kidneys are able to compensate for this damage and will be able to still keep your body in total homeostasis. You may only notice mild swelling of your lower legs at the end of the day.
What are the adverse events of diuretics?
Adverse events related to diuretic administration are dose‐dependent (Sica 2011a), but commonly include hypotension, decreased GFR, electrolyte abnormalities and hyperkalaemia. The Eighth Joint International Commission guidelines recommends some blood pressure control (less than 140/90 mm Hg for general hypertensive population less than 60 years, diabetics or non‐diabetic CKD patients) (James 2014) while the KDIGO 2013 guidelines recommend blood pressure less than 130/80 mm Hg for patients with albumin excretion ≥ 30 mg/24 h (KDIGO 2013; Palevsky 2013). The Eighth Joint International Commission guidelines also recommends that initial or add on hypertensive therapy with ACEi or angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) will improve kidney outcomes in people with CKD (James 2014).
What are the main uses of diuretics in CKD?
The principal use of diuretics in CKD is to reduce blood pressure and treat swelling (oedema) (Sica 2011a). Diuretics facilitate the action of angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEis) and other antihypertensive drugs to reduce the risk of coronary vascular disease among people with CKD (Carter 2004; NKF K/DOQI 2002). Diuretics can also help to control potassium levels in people with elevated potassium levels (hyperkalaemia). Long‐acting diuretics administered with antihypertensive drugs have been shown to increase patients' compliance with drug therapy (Sica 2011a). There are three main types of diuretics: thiazides, loop diuretics and potassium‐sparing diuretics. Thiazide diuretics act on distal tubules; loop diuretics on the thick ascending limb of loop of Henle; and potassium‐sparing diuretics on collecting tubules.
Is torsemide a loop diuretic?
Bumetanide, furosemide and torsemide are frequently used loop diuretics. The bioavailability of loop diuretics is not affected by the presence of CKD. Loop diuretics should be reserved for conditions of clinically significant fluid overload (e.g. heart failure and significant fluid retention with vasodilator drugs, such as minoxidil) or with advanced kidney failure and can be combined with thiazide‐type diuretics (Sica 2011b).
Is CKD a common condition?
CKD is an important, common condition that can complicate other comorbidities and itself lead to increased morbidity and mortality. This review intends to systematically assess the benefits and harms of diuretics for people at all stages of CKD. Diuretics are important class of drugs but there is little evidence to guide clinicians regarding which diuretics are most effective, safest in these patients, or when switching should occur from one type of diuretic to another in this population.
Can you convert from one class of diuretics to another?
There is limited evidence about the appropriate time to convert from one class of diuretic to another. There is need to assess existing differences for controlling blood pressure for loop diuretics without any effect on volume loss. Furthermore, there is limited information available for titrating dose appropriately for blood pressure control.
Does thiazide increase potassium?
Thiazides increase sodium, potassium and magnesium excretion and decrease calcium excretion. Thiazide‐induced hypokalaemia is associated with increased blood glucose, and treatment of thiazide‐induced hypokalaemia may reverse glucose intolerance and may prevent diabetes (Sica 2011b). Thiazide‐induced hyperuricaemia occurs as a result of volume contraction and competition with uric acid for renal tubular secretion (Sica 2011b). Adverse interactions include the blunting of thiazide effects by nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs and the potential to increase fatigue, lethargy, and increase in glucose when combined with beta‐blockers (Sica 2011b).
Can you use loop diuretics alone?
The safety and efficacy of diuretics alone or in combination need to be addressed. The safety issue of combining loop diuretics with thiazide diuretics compared with higher doses of loop diuretics has not been addressed, nor is the safety and efficacy of use of loop diuretics in patients on haemolysis known.
Which antibiotics are toxic to the kidney?
Aminoglycoside antibiotics are known for causing kidney injury—even at low doses. People with chronic kidney disease, dehydration, or those who have been taking these antibiotics for a long time are at particularly high risk. The most toxic aminoglycoside is neomycin, followed by gentamicin, tobramycin, and amikacin. Streptomycin is the least toxic. Although these medications are typically used in hospitals, they are important to keep at the back of your mind!
Is ACE good for kidneys?
ACE inhibitors can be good and bad for your kidneys. These are medications that tend to end in “-il,” like lisinopril, enalapril, and ramipril. ACE inhibitors are popular drugs for high blood pressure and heart failure.
Can nephrotoxic medications cause kidney damage?
Medications that can damage the kidneys are known as “nephrotoxic medications.” These drugs can cause direct damage to the kidneys. Some of these medications mildly worsen kidney function and others can cause acute kidney injuries. The risk for kidney damage depends on your individual health and other medications you are taking. For people with even mild kidney failure, you might want to talk to your doctor about the pros and cons of these medications.
Can NSAIDS cause kidney failure?
NSAIDS are used to treat a host of conditions such as fever, rheumatoid arthritis, menstrual pain, and inflammation, but they can also reduce the amount of blood flow to the kidneys, resulting in a potential for kidney damage or failure. People with heart failure, liver disease, or previous kidney problems are at even higher risk when taking NSAIDS.
Can ACE inhibitors cause kidney damage?
Because ACE inhibitors are metabolized by the kidneys, they do come with a risk of causing kidney damage, especially if you are dehydrated, which is often the case in people with existing kidney problems—like chronic kidney disease. If you are at a higher risk for kidney damage but need an ACE inhibitor, you will likely start on a low dose, and your doctor may need you to come in for routine blood creatinine tests to monitor the health of your kidneys.
Is Foscarnet toxic to kidneys?
Foscarnet, also given by IV, is a rarely used drug that treats viral infections in patients with weakened immune systems. It can be highly toxic to the kidneys, so if you need it, your doctor will closely monitor your kidney function.
Does Jardiance cause kidney failure?
Jardiance is a diabetes medication that may protect the kidneys in patients with diabetes but has also been reported in rare cases to cause kidney failure. Importantly, Jardiance has diuretic effects and interacts with other nephrotoxic drugs (drugs on this list), raising the risk for toxic kidney effects. Again, rare, but it can happen.
Why do you need diuretics?
Each of three chief types of diuretic acts on a different part of the kidneys to remove water from your body. To avoid adversely affecting the kidneys, you must use ...
What is the final diuretic?
The final diuretic type prescribed is the potassium-sparing diuretic. If you have experienced adverse symptoms from loss of potassium -- such as rapid heartbeat and fatigue -- your physician may recommend this diuretic type. This medication acts on aldosterone, a hormone in the kidneys that can signal the release of water and salts. ...
What is the most commonly prescribed diuretic?
Thiazide diuretics -- the most commonly prescribed diuretic -- stop the transport of salt to the distal tubule in the kidneys, thus promoting the loss of water and salts via increased urination, according to the Cardiovascular Pharmacology Concepts webpage.
How to stop swelling in kidneys?
Drink more water to prevent this from harming your kidneys. If your symptoms continue, you should speak to your physician about your medication. Patients have abused diuretics over the years as a means to encourage weight loss or in efforts to get faster results for painful swelling.
Can diuretics affect kidney function?
Always tell your doctor all the medications you are taking to avoid interactions that can affect the kidneys. When taken properly, most diuretics will not affect your kidney function. Your kidneys may be affected, however, if you take diuretics and another medication known to cause harmful drug interaction symptoms.
Do loop diuretics affect kidneys?
Loop diuretics also stimulate the kidneys to synthesize hormones that cause your blood vessels to expand. When used properly, however, neither medication should adversely affect your kidneys. Your body needs potassium to perform a number of functions, but diuretics can affect the level of potassium in your body.
Can you take diuretics with digitalis?
Your kidneys may be affected, however, if you take diuretics and another medication known to cause harmful drug interaction symptoms. For example, you should not take a diuretic with digitalis, certain antidepressants, some high blood pressure medications, lithium or cyclosporine, notes the Texas Heart Institute.
Can a man get better with diuretics?
Diuretic therapy: Yes, he can get a bit better - but diuretic dosage must be adjusted to his response - he could experience excessive response -- so talk to doc about w ... Read More
Can malaria cause kidney failure?
Yes: The malaria parasite lives and divides in the red blood cells. In some forms of malaria, there are so many parasites that the red cells start getting ... Read More
Can e.coli caused kidney failure if untreated?
Yes and no: A specific group of e. Coli (ehec-enterohemorrrhagic e. Coli) is responsible for acute renal failure, known as hemolytic uremic syndrome (hus), followi... Read More
What drugs can cause a reduction in blood flow in the kidneys?
Antirejection drugs including cyclosporine and tacrolimus can constrict the blood vessels near the kidneys, leading to reduction in blood flow and kidney function.
What drugs can cause swelling in the kidneys?
Antiviral drugs. Antivirals such as acyclovir, which is used for herpes, chickenpox and shingles and Valtrex (valaciclovir), a herpes treatment, may lead to kidney swelling and inflammation and can also produce those pesky crystals that won’t dissolve. Medications can cause inflammation in several parts of the kidney, ...
How do kidneys help the body?
The kidneys get rid of waste and extra fluid in the body by filtering the blood to produce urine. They also keep electrolyte levels balanced and make hormones that influence blood pressure, bone strength and the production of red blood cells. When something interferes with the kidneys, they can’t do their job, so these functions can slow down or stop altogether.
Why are there more than 30% of preventable kidney events related to meds?
More than 30% of preventable kidney events related to meds were caused by a lack of proper monitoring, according to one study. And 37% of such events were due to the healthcare provider’s failure to take action when laboratory results or other clinical signs suggested the patient was at risk.
How do you know if you have kidney toxicity?
Though symptoms of kidney toxicity can vary from person to person, signs might include a decreased amount of urine, swelling in your legs, feet or ankles due to fluid retention, fatigue, nausea, confusion, shortness of breath and pressure or pain in the chest.
How many cases of acute kidney failure are due to medications?
An estimated 20% of cases of acute kidney failure are due to medications. The technical term for this scenario is “nephrotoxicity,” which is growing more common as the aging population grows, along with rates of various diseases.
How to get rid of toxins in kidneys?
Drink adequate fluids to flush out the toxins. Dehydration is a known risk factor for kidney failure, as it can cause the medication to become too concentrated and to stay in the system too long.