Kidney or Liver Problems? Your Medications May Need Adjusting
Your kidneys and liver do more than just keep your body clean—they’re also key players in how your medications work. If you have kidney or liver problems, your medications might not be processed the same way, which can affect how well they work—or even make them unsafe.
Why It Matters
Most medications are filtered through the liver or kidneys. If either of these organs isn’t functioning properly, the medication can:
Stay in your body too long and build up to unsafe levels
Be less effective
Cause more side effects or unexpected reactions
Common Medications That May Need Adjustment
If you have chronic kidney disease (CKD), liver disease, or are recovering from an illness affecting these organs, your doctor or pharmacist may adjust the dose of medications like:
Pain medications (ibuprofen, acetaminophen)
Blood pressure pills
Diabetes medications
Antibiotics
Cholesterol medications
Blood thinners
Antacids and stomach meds
What You Can Do
Always tell your doctor or pharmacist if you’ve been diagnosed with liver or kidney issues—even mild or early-stage. Don’t stop or change any medication without speaking to your provider. Keep up with lab work like creatinine, eGFR, or liver enzymes—these help guide medication decisions. Bring all medications (including supplements and over-the-counter items) to appointments.
Did You Know?
Some signs of medication buildup or improper dosing in liver/kidney disease may include:
Confusion or drowsiness
Nausea
Skin rashes
Swelling
Trouble breathing
If you notice any of these, reach out to your provider right away.
We’re Here to Help
If you’ve had changes in your liver or kidney health—or it’s just been a while since your medication list was reviewed—schedule a visit with our clinical pharmacists on staff or speak to a member of our team. We’ll help make sure your medications are working safely and effectively for you.
