Kidney Failure
Kidney failure is the loss of the kidneys’ ability to eliminate excess fluid, salts, and waste from the body. The loss of kidney function allows harmful wastes to accumulate in the body. Signs and symptoms of kidney failure develop gradually over time and may include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Fatigue and weakness
- Sleep problems
- Decreased mental sharpness
- Muscle twitches and cramps
- Swelling of the feet and ankles
- Persistent itching
- Decreased urine output
Prescription and over-the-counter medications known to cause renal failure include: NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as naproxen and ibuprofen), antibiotics, lithium, and iodine. Physicians must follow special guidelines for prescribing medications that might be toxic to the kidneys or that are for patients with pre-existing renal insufficiency. Even after a drug is approved by the FDA and widely used, new issues relating to it's potential for kidney failure can be discovered, as occurred with Reclast (zoledronic acid).
Trasylol, also known as aprotinin, is an injectable medication used to stem blood loss during open heart surgeries. This medication is associated with increased risk of renal failure and its administration has led to a number of patient deaths and to acute kidney failure requiring dialysis. Lawsuits relating to this drug are pending against Bayer Corporation in multi-district litigation proceedings.
For more information, please visit the Mayo Clinic.
