Eight pills that should not be consumed because they affect the kidneys

Pills That May Harm Your Kidneys If Taken Frequently

Over the years, the use of medications to treat illnesses has increased dramatically—but so have concerns about their negative effects on overall health.

While pills are often essential tools for managing a wide range of conditions, frequent or prolonged use of certain medications can cause serious damage to your internal organs, particularly your kidneys.
Since the kidneys are responsible for filtering toxins from your body, any deterioration in their function can pose a major threat to your overall health.

Pills That Can Negatively Impact Kidney Health

Although these medications are readily available in pharmacies and prescribed for legitimate health concerns, excessive or repeated use can impair your kidneys and disrupt your body’s natural balance.
Here’s a closer look at some of the most concerning examples:

• Lithium:
  Commonly prescribed for treating bipolar disorder, but long-term use can be toxic to the kidneys.

• Anticonvulsants:
  Medications like phenytoin and trimethadione, often used for seizure control, can stress the kidneys over time.

• Chemotherapy Drugs:
  Certain cancer treatments—including interferons, pamidronate, cisplatin, carboplatin, cyclosporine, tacrolimus, quinine, mitomycin C, and bevacizumab—are known to cause significant kidney damage.

• Propylthiouracil:
  Used to manage thyroid conditions, but can place extra strain on kidney function with frequent use.

• Heartburn Medications (Proton Pump Inhibitors):
  Common drugs like omeprazole, lansoprazole, pantoprazole, rabeprazole, and esomeprazole have been linked to an increased risk of chronic kidney disease with long-term use.

• Antivirals:
  Medications such as acyclovir (used for herpes), indinavir, and tefonovir (used to treat HIV) may have toxic effects on the kidneys when used excessively.

• Captopril:
  A medication for managing high blood pressure that can, over time, affect kidney function if not properly monitored.

• Bone and Joint Medications:
  Drugs like infliximab (for arthritis), chloroquine, and hydroxychloroquine (for malaria and lupus) may also impact kidney health after prolonged use.

A Word of Caution

Disclaimer: Always follow your healthcare provider’s advice when using any medication. Never stop or adjust prescribed medications without consulting a medical professional. If you are concerned about the effects of a medication on your kidneys, speak to your doctor about alternative options or monitoring strategies.

Protecting your kidneys is crucial for long-term health and vitality. Being informed about the potential risks of frequent medication use is an important step toward safeguarding your well-being.