Renal Diet HQ Podcast - Renal Diet HQ

What do I need to know about Adjusting my Medications as Kidney Function Changes-Podcast


Listen Later

If you have chronic kidney disease (CKD), it’s important to understand how changes in kidney function can affect your medications. As your kidneys play a major role in filtering and processing drugs in your body, declining function can lead to complications if your medications aren’t properly adjusted.

In this post, we’ll cover why medication changes are often needed for people with CKD, what types of drugs require caution, and how to work with your healthcare provider to stay safe and effective in your treatment plan.

For More Recipes and Ideas --->> Get Your Free Meals and Recipes That Are Perfect for Pre-Dialysis Diets, Pre-Dialysis with Diabetes, or Dialysis Diets.

Why Medication Adjustment Matters in Chronic Kidney Disease

Your kidneys are responsible for filtering waste and extra fluids, including byproducts from medications. When kidney function declines, your body may struggle to process certain drugs effectively.

This can result in:

  • Medication buildup, increasing the risk of harmful side effects.
  • Reduced drug effectiveness if your kidneys can’t filter or activate the medication properly.
  • Whether you’re managing blood pressure, diabetes, infections, or other conditions, it’s essential to consider your kidney health in every medication decision.

    Key Considerations for Medications and CKD
    Dosage Adjustments May Be Necessary

    Many common medications—including antibiotics, blood pressure medications, and diabetes drugs—are cleared from the body through the kidneys.

    As kidney function decreases, your doctor may need to:

    • Reduce the dosage of these medications.
    • Adjust the timing or frequency of doses.
    • Monitor drug levels more closely to avoid toxicity.
    • Without proper adjustments, medications can build up in the bloodstream, increasing the risk of side effects or complications.

      Some Medications Should Be Avoided or Used with Caution

      Certain drugs are known to put extra stress on the kidneys or even worsen kidney function. If you have CKD, your healthcare team may recommend avoiding or limiting the following:

      • NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs):
        • Examples: Naproxen, ibuprofen, and aspirin
        • Risk: These medications can reduce blood flow to the kidneys and worsen kidney function, especially in high doses.
        • Antacids and laxatives containing magnesium:
          • Risk: Magnesium can accumulate in the body when kidney function is impaired, leading to further complications.
          • By identifying potentially harmful medications, your care team can help you manage your condition more safely.

            Chronic kidney disease requires thoughtful, ongoing medication management. Because your kidneys affect how drugs are processed, even small changes in function can mean big changes in how your body reacts to medication.

            To stay safe:

            • Always talk to your doctor or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medications.
            • Regularly monitor your kidney function with blood tests.
            • Keep a current list of all your medications and supplements.
            • Taking these steps can help you avoid complications and ensure your treatment is both safe and effective as your kidney health changes.

              Need more support managing medications with CKD?
              Talk with your healthcare provider about personalized medication adjustments and explore additional resources on kidney health and drug safety.

              Be sure to subscribe to our updates and check out more CKD-safe recipes and guidance at RenalDietHQ.com.

              🎧 Want more details and tips? Listen to the full podcast episode here:
              👉 Learn more about: Can I Have Coffee on a Renal Diet? Here’s What You Need to Know!-Podcast

              👉 Learn more about: What BBQ Foods Are Kidney-Friendly? Let’s Break It Down!-Podcast

              The post What do I need to know about Adjusting my Medications as Kidney Function Changes-Podcast appeared first on Renal Diet HQ.

              ...more
              View all episodesView all episodes
              Download on the App Store

              Renal Diet HQ Podcast - Renal Diet HQBy Renal Diet HQ Podcast - Renal Diet HQ

              • 4.8
              • 4.8
              • 4.8
              • 4.8
              • 4.8

              4.8

              4 ratings


              More shows like Renal Diet HQ Podcast - Renal Diet HQ

              View all
              This American Life by This American Life

              This American Life

              91,138 Listeners

              Core IM | Internal Medicine Podcast by Core IM Team

              Core IM | Internal Medicine Podcast

              1,157 Listeners

              The Doctor's Kitchen Podcast by Dr Rupy Aujla

              The Doctor's Kitchen Podcast

              629 Listeners

              The Peter Attia Drive by Peter Attia, MD

              The Peter Attia Drive

              9,193 Listeners

              Call Her Daddy by Alex Cooper

              Call Her Daddy

              165,642 Listeners

              Dateline NBC by NBC News

              Dateline NBC

              47,667 Listeners