Back to Patient EducationMedication Safety

Medications to Avoid with Kidney Disease

Some medicines are harder on the kidneys than others. With CKD, the goal is not fear. It is knowing which drugs deserve extra caution and review.

Common kidney medication risks

  • NSAIDs such as ibuprofen and naproxen
  • Contrast dye used for some scans and procedures
  • Some antibiotics that need kidney dosing
  • Herbal supplements with unclear ingredients
  • Over-the-counter products used without checking with your clinician

Many drugs can still be used safely with kidney disease, but the dose may need adjusting or an alternative may be better.

Bring every medication and supplement into the kidney conversation

The safest move is a full medication review with your kidney team, especially before scans, new antibiotics, or over-the-counter pain medicine.

Get Started - It's Free