Some medicines, supplements, and everyday products can affect kidney function, especially with long-term use or in people with existing kidney problems. Learn what warning signs to watch for and when to speak with a doctor.
Taking This Could Be Affecting Your Kidneys—Consult Your Doctor!
Your kidneys work continuously to filter waste from your blood, regulate fluids and electrolytes, and help control blood pressure. Because many substances are processed or eliminated through the kidneys, certain medicines and supplements can potentially affect kidney function.
The important point is that kidney problems don’t always cause obvious symptoms early on. That’s why it’s risky to stop a medication—or start a supplement—based solely on something you read online.
Which Things Can Affect the Kidneys?
Several categories of medicines and substances can cause kidney problems in certain people.
1. Some Painkillers
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and naproxen can reduce blood flow to the kidneys. The risk can be greater with high doses, prolonged use, dehydration, older age, or existing kidney disease.
Don’t assume an over-the-counter medicine is automatically harmless.
2. Certain Prescription Medicines
Some antibiotics, blood-pressure medicines, diuretics, and other prescription drugs can affect kidney function in particular circumstances.
This doesn’t mean you should stop taking them. Many of these medicines are important and safe when appropriately prescribed and monitored.
3. Herbal Supplements
“Natural” doesn’t necessarily mean kidney-safe.
Some herbal products may contain substances that can harm the kidneys, while others may interact with prescription medications or contain contaminants.
Be particularly cautious with products marketed as “kidney cleanses” or “detoxes.”
4. Excessive Use of Supplements
High doses of certain vitamins, minerals, or other supplements may be problematic for some people.
For example, excessive intake of certain substances can contribute to kidney stones or other complications, depending on the person’s health and circumstances.
Who May Be at Greater Risk?
The risk of medication-related kidney problems can be higher in people who have:
- Existing kidney disease
- Diabetes
- Heart failure
- High blood pressure
- Dehydration
- Older age
- Multiple medications
Your doctor may recommend blood or urine tests to monitor kidney function if you’re taking medicines that could affect the kidneys.
Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
Kidney problems can sometimes develop without noticeable symptoms. However, possible warning signs include:
- Noticeably reduced urine output
- Swelling around the legs, ankles, or face
- Persistent nausea or vomiting
- Unusual fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Blood in the urine
- Persistent changes in urination
- Confusion in severe cases
These symptoms can have many different causes, so they don’t automatically mean your kidneys are being damaged.
Don’t Stop Medication on Your Own
If you suspect that a medicine or supplement is affecting your kidneys, contact your doctor or pharmacist before stopping it.
Your healthcare professional can review everything you’re taking—including prescription medicines, over-the-counter products, vitamins, and herbal supplements—and decide whether kidney-function testing is appropriate.
Stay Hydrated—but Don’t Overdo It
Dehydration can increase the risk of kidney injury with certain medicines, particularly during illness involving vomiting, diarrhea, fever, or poor fluid intake.
However, people with certain heart or kidney conditions may have specific fluid restrictions. Don’t force large amounts of water unless your healthcare professional has advised you to do so.
The Bottom Line
A medicine or supplement that is safe for one person may not be appropriate for another. Kidney health depends on the substance, dose, duration of use, and your individual medical history.
If you’re worried that something you’re taking may be affecting your kidneys, don’t guess and don’t stop essential medication abruptly. Make a list of everything you take and discuss it with your doctor or pharmacist.