When you have kidney disease, not all medications are created equal. The KDIGO guidelines, a set of internationally recognized clinical recommendations for kidney disease management developed by the Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes organization. These guidelines don’t just offer opinions—they give clear, evidence-based rules on which drugs to use, which to avoid, and how to adjust doses based on kidney function. If you’re taking blood pressure meds, pain relievers, or diabetes drugs, these rules directly impact your safety.
One of the biggest things KDIGO focuses on is nephrotoxic drugs, medications that can damage the kidneys further. Common ones like ibuprofen, certain antibiotics, and contrast dyes used in imaging tests can be dangerous if your kidneys aren’t working well. The guidelines tell doctors exactly which ones to skip and which ones need lower doses. They also push for using eGFR, a simple blood test that measures how well your kidneys filter waste to guide every prescription. That means your dose isn’t based on age or weight alone—it’s based on what your kidneys can handle right now.
These rules aren’t just for doctors. They’re meant to help patients understand why their meds change over time. If your kidney function drops, your diabetes pill might need to be switched. Your blood pressure med might need a lower dose. Even over-the-counter supplements can be risky under KDIGO’s watch. That’s why the posts here cover everything from how to read drug labels for kidney safety to why some meds cause dizziness or swelling when your kidneys are weak. You’ll find real advice on avoiding dangerous interactions, spotting red flags on prescriptions, and asking the right questions at your next appointment.
What you’ll see below isn’t a list of abstract medical theories. It’s practical, real-world guidance pulled from the same science behind KDIGO. Whether you’re managing chronic kidney disease, helping a loved one, or just trying to understand why your doctor changed your meds, these articles give you the tools to stay safe. No jargon. No fluff. Just what you need to know to protect your kidneys while staying healthy.
Anemia in kidney disease is caused by low erythropoietin and iron problems. Erythropoietin therapy and IV iron are the standard treatments, with new oral options like roxadustat emerging. Target hemoglobin between 10-11.5 g/dL to avoid complications.