Kidney Damaging Drugs You Should Never Take Without Doctor’s Prescription

Kidney damage is a potentially fatal condition that can occur as a result of taking certain types of medications. Despite the potential risks, many consumers still choose to take certain drugs without consulting a doctor or healthcare professional. It is important to understand the potential kidney-damaging side effects of certain drugs and only to take them based on doctor’s prescription or under their supervision. In this article, we will discuss some of the most common kidney-damaging drugs that should never be taken without doctor’s prescription…..CONTINUE READING…CONTINUE READING

NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)

NSAIDs, also known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, are prescription medications commonly used to reduce pain and inflammation. These drugs are typically used to treat conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and analgesia. However, long-term or high-dose NSAID use can be associated with a number of unwanted side effects, including an increased risk of kidney damage. According to the National Institutes of Health, NSAIDs may cause decreases in the kidneys’ ability to filter waste and salt from the body. The risk is greatest for those who already have kidney problems or are taking other medications that can damage the kidneys. Therefore, it is important that individuals only take NSAIDs when prescribed by a doctor.

Antibiotics

Certain antibiotics, such as aminoglycosides, can also cause kidney damage. Aminoglycosides are a group of antibiotics used to treat bacterial infections. While they are very effective in treating bacterial infections, they can also have some dangerous side effects. According to the Mayo Clinic, aminoglycosides can cause kidney damage by damaging the kidneys’ tiny blood vessels. This can lead to a decrease in urinary output and other kidney-related problems. Individuals should be sure to follow their doctor’s instructions carefully when taking aminoglycosides and should never take them without a doctor’s prescription.

High-Dose Vitamin D Supplements

High doses of vitamin D can also be risky to the kidneys. Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin found in some foods, such as dairy products, eggs, and fish. It is also made in the skin after exposure to sunlight. Vitamin D is important for healthy bones because it helps the body absorb calcium from the diet. While vitamin D is essential for healthy bones, taking too much can lead to kidney damage. According to the National Institutes of Health, high doses of vitamin D can be toxic to the kidneys and increase the risk of kidney stones. As such, individuals should always take vitamin D supplements according to the directions of their healthcare provider.

Oral Contraceptives

Oral contraceptives, also known as birth control pills, can sometimes cause kidney damage. Taking oral contraceptives increases the risk of high blood pressure, which can, in turn, lead to damage to the kidneys. According to the Mayo Clinic, women taking oral contraceptives should be aware of their individual risk factors and be sure to have their blood pressure monitored regularly. Women should also talk to their doctor about any changes in their health or other medications they may be taking before taking oral contraceptives.

ACE inhibitors

ACE inhibitors are medications used to treat many different medical conditions, including hypertension and heart failure. While these medications are typically effective in treating these conditions, long-term use can lead to kidney damage. According to the National Institutes of Health, ACE inhibitors can produce an imbalance between the amount of salt and water in the body, leading to an increase in the levels of potassium in the blood. This can be dangerous to the kidneys and, in some cases, can lead to permanent kidney damage. Therefore, individuals should only take ACE inhibitors if prescribed by their doctor.

Conclusion

Kidney damage is a serious condition that can be caused by a variety of medications and supplements. Therefore, it is important to be aware of the potential risks associated with taking certain medications and supplements and to only take them under the direction of a doctor. This article has provided information on some of the most common kidney-damaging drugs and supplements. Individuals should never take these medications or supplements without doctor’s prescription…..CONTINUE READING