Taking care of your kidneys and liver

Medication Effects on the Liver and Kidneys

Your liver and kidneys are your body’s main filters. Many medications are processed (metabolized) by the liver, excreted by the kidneys, or both. Understanding which organs are involved—and how they may be affected—can prevent harm and promote safer use of medications.

Liver Effects

Common risks include:

• Liver inflammation or injury

• Elevated liver enzymes

• Impaired drug metabolism

• Cholestasis (bile flow problems)

⚠️ Medications that may affect the liver:

• Acetaminophen (Tylenol)

• Statins

• Antibiotics (isoniazid, nitrofurantoin)

• Antifungals

• Anticonvulsants

• Methotrexate

• Certain herbal supplements (e.g., kava, comfrey)

Kidney Effects

Common risks include:

• Impaired filtration

• Electrolyte disturbances

• Accumulation in reduced kidney function

• Acute or chronic kidney injury

⚠️ Medications that may affect the kidneys:

• NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen)

• Certain antibiotics (aminoglycosides)

• ACE inhibitors / ARBs

• Diuretics

• Chemotherapy agents

• Imaging contrast dyes

Monitoring Tips

Lab tests to track include:

• Liver: AST, ALT, ALP, bilirubin

• Kidneys: Creatinine, BUN, eGFR

• Electrolytes: Potassium, sodium, magnesium

Things to Know

1. Know what organs process each medication.

2. Keep an up-to-date medication list.

3. Watch for changes like fatigue, swelling, or nausea.

4. Ask about necessary lab tests.

5. Communicate all meds (prescription, OTC, and supplements) to providers.

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