Other MedicationWARNING — Review of this information is overdue. It may be out of date.
People with kidney failure will often need to take many drugs to help keep them healthy. This page lists some of the drugs that are commonly taken and a few side effects. Also see the page about blood pressure and water tablets.
ALFACALCIDOL is a Vitamin D capsule. It is given to increase your blood calcium level and keep it normal. It is usually taken once a day in the morning. Side effects can include feeling sick. If this happens try taking it with food. Liquid drops are also available if you have trouble swallowing, or prefer to avoid capsules that contain gelatin, for example if you are a strict vegetarian.
ASPIRIN is a tablet given to help to thin your blood to stop your dialysis lines or fistula from becoming blocked. It is normally taken once a day in the morning. Aspirin may irritate your stomach or cause indigestion; this can be reduced by taking the tablet with food and dissolving it in water before swallowing.
There are many different types of anti-histamines. These include:
Anti-histamines are used to reduce itching that can happen as chemicals build up in your body. There are several types available. Some anti-histamines can cause drowsiness, if you feel drowsy do not drive or operate machinery.
Chlorphenamine (“Piriton”) and some other antihistamines can be bought from your local pharmacy. Take care not to take twice the recommended dose ie do not take antihistamines from your doctor and those you have bought.
FERROUS SULPHATE is an iron tablet which can be taken to try and reduce anaemia. It is often taken three times a day. If you are taking phosphate binders or some antibiotics (check with the pharmacist) you should try and split the doses by one hour. Side effects can include constipation, diarrhoea or feeling sick. If this happens try taking the tablets with food. You may notice your stools or urine becoming a darker colour; this is normal and nothing to worry about.
LACTULOSE and SENNA are given to relieve constipation. Senna is usually taken in the evening, lactulose can be taken twice a day. They may take a day or so to be effective. Side effects can include belching and stomach cramps.
RANITIDINE helps to reduce the amount of acid in your stomach, to prevent acid indigestion or problems with stomach ulcers. It is usually taken once or twice a day. Possible side effects can include tiredness, headaches and dizziness.
LANSOPRAZOLE and OMEPRAZOLE reduce the amount of acid in your stomach, to prevent acid indigestion or problems with stomach ulcers. Lansoprazole should be taken first thing in the morning before breakfast, Omeprazole can be taken in the morning or evening. Side effects include diarrhoea, feeling sick.
SIMVASTATIN or ATORVASTATIN help to reduce cholesterol levels. The tablets should be taken at bedtime. Possible side effects include headache, feeling sick and muscle pain or muscle weakness. If you suffer from muscle pain you should tell your doctor.
NKF Controlled Document No. 68, Other Medications, written 22 April 2000. Last reviewed 12 January 2010.
The National Kidney Federation cannot accept responsibility for information provided. The above is for guidance only. Patients are advised to seek further information from their own doctor.
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Page created: 22 April 2000
Last updated: 27 February 2011