Understanding Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
Understand how NSAIDs can affect CKD and why it’s important to avoid them. Learn to check medication labels and protect your kidney health today.
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Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are a common group of medications used to reduce pain, inflammation, and fever. If you have chronic kidney disease (CKD), it’s important to avoid using NSAIDs as they can cause further damage to your kidney function.
Identifying NSAIDs
Before taking medications, check the label for these commonly used NSAIDs:
- Aspirin
- Salsalate (Amigesic)
- Celecoxib (Celebrex)
- Diclofenac (Voltaren, Cambia)
- Etodolac (Lodine)
- Ibuprofen (Advil, Midol®, Motrin)
- Indomethacin (Indocin)
- Ketoprofen (Orudis)
- Ketorolac (Toradol)
- Meloxicam (Mobic)
- Nabumetone (Relafen)
- Naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn)
- Oxaprozin (Daypro)
- Piroxicam (Feldene)
- Sulindac (Clinoril)
- Tolmetin (Tolectin)
Understanding aspirin
Aspirin has many uses including pain relief and maintaining heart health. It’s important to check medication labels and not take products with aspirin unless prescribed by your nephrologist or cardiologist. Ask the pharmacist if you’re unsure if a product contains aspirin and always check with your nephrologist or cardiologist before taking the medication.
TIP: NSAIDs can also be found in many medications for colds, coughs, and sleeping problems. Always check the ingredient list for NSAIDs before taking to be sure.
We are here to help
Your care team can help answer your questions about NSAIDs and help you find safer medication options. Reach out for any support you need.
This serves only as a guide. Talk with your healthcare provider for more information based on your health needs.