3. Aspirin, Naproxen, and Diclofenac
Like ibuprofen, these pain relievers fall into the NSAID category. Overuse doesn’t just strain the kidneys — it can also raise blood pressure, cause fluid retention, and spark chronic kidney disease.
Warning signs: bloating, fatigue, nausea, and less frequent urination. If you notice these while taking pain relievers, it’s time to call your doctor.
4. Certain Antibiotics
Aminoglycoside antibiotics, such as gentamicin or amikacin, are lifesaving drugs used for serious infections. But they come with a serious risk: nephrotoxicity, or direct kidney damage.
Doctors usually prescribe these only when absolutely necessary, and patients are monitored closely. Still, it’s important to ask questions if you or a loved one are put on these medications.
5. Lithium for Bipolar Disorder
For decades, lithium has been one of the most trusted treatments for bipolar disorder. But long-term use can have side effects, including kidney failure and a condition called nephrogenic diabetes insipidus, which interferes with the body’s ability to manage fluids.
Anyone taking lithium should be closely monitored with regular blood work and kidney checkups. This is not a medication to manage without a strong partnership between psychiatrist and nephrologist.
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6. Diuretics — The “Water Pills”
Diuretics are commonly prescribed for high blood pressure or swelling caused by fluid retention. They help the body get rid of excess salt and water.
But when used too aggressively or without monitoring, diuretics can dehydrate the body, upset electrolyte balance, and increase stress on the kidneys.
Important reminder: Never adjust the dose of a diuretic on your own. Even small changes can affect kidney function.
7. Blood Pressure Medications
Here’s where it gets tricky. Some renin-angiotensin system (RAS) inhibitors, a class of blood pressure medications, may affect kidney function over time.
But — and this is key — they are also essential for protecting the heart and controlling high blood pressure, which is one of the leading causes of kidney failure.
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That means these medications should never be stopped suddenly. If you’re concerned, talk to your doctor. In many cases, the benefits outweigh the risks, but dosage and monitoring are critical.
Everyday Tips to Protect Your Kidneys
Medications may play a role, but there’s much you can do daily to keep your kidneys strong:
Check your blood pressure regularly. High blood pressure is one of the biggest risks for kidney disease.
Maintain a healthy weight. Extra weight increases the strain on kidneys.
Control blood sugar if you’re diabetic. Elevated blood sugar slowly damages the kidneys’ delicate filters.
Get urine tests. Even a simple dipstick test can reveal early warning signs like protein in the urine.
Avoid self-medicating. Just because something is sold over the counter doesn’t mean it’s harmless.
Cut harmful habits. Smoking and heavy drinking put kidneys under constant stress.
Watch your cholesterol and triglycerides. Heart health and kidney health go hand in hand.
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