Topic Overview

Many medicines may impair kidney function and cause kidney damage. If you have chronic kidney disease, your doctor may advise you to continue to take a medicine but may change how much you take to protect you from kidney damage.

It is important to talk to your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal products that you take. Some examples of common medicines that can cause problems include:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as:
  • Aspirin (for example, Excedrin).
  • Celecoxib (Celebrex).
  • Ibuprofen (for example, Advil).
  • Naproxen (for example, Aleve).
• Acetaminophen (such as Tylenol), which may be harmful if it is overused.
• Herbal products. Chinese herbs used for weight loss have caused kidney disease in some people. Avoid products that have aristolochic acid in the ingredient list.
• High blood pressure medicines, such as:
  • ACE inhibitors (for example, ramipril, captopril, and enalapril).
  • Angiotensin II receptor blockers (such as candesartan, losartan, telmisartan, and valsartan).
  • Hydralazine.
• Diuretics, such as:
  • Chlorothiazide.
  • Furosemide.
  • Hydrochlorothiazide.
• Antibiotics, such as:
  • Cephalosporins.
  • Penicillins.
  • Sulfa drugs.
• Medicines used to treat cancer, such as:
  • Cisplatin.
  • Ifosfamide.
  • Mitomycin.

Don't stop taking any prescription medicines without talking to your doctor first.