Medications
People with chronic kidney disease often take a variety of medications to help manage their disease.
If patients have concerns about their medications they should always talk to their doctor and/or pharmacist. Please note, the information provided on this website is designed to help you understand how the medications you are taking work, possible side effects and precautions. It is not a substitute for talking to your doctor or pharmacist.
Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you:
- Are having side effects
- Forget to take your medications
- Do not know why you are taking a medication
- Think your medication is not working
- Run out of your medication
- Have changes to your medications from another doctor
Every time you come to clinic, please bring:
- All of your medications
- Any over-the-counter drugs
- Herbals and vitamins
- An updated medication list
Medication Information for Renal Patients
Anemia/Low Blood Count: Information for Patients
What is anemia? What are the symptoms of anemia? While these symptoms are common to most people with anemia, you…
Azathioprine
What is it? Azathioprine is used to treat various types of kidney disease. Why did my doctor prescribe or recommend…
Changes to Your Non-renal Medications or Changing Pharmacies
When you see a doctor outside of the dialysis unit (for example, your family doctor, a doctor at a walk-in…
Coughs, Colds & the Flu
Information for People with Kidney Disease Introduction The common cold is an easily spread and easily contracted illness. The average…
Cyclophosphamide
What is it? Cyclophosphamide can be used to treat various types of kidney disease. Cyclophosphamide was originally developed as a…
Cyclosporine
What is it? Cyclosporine can be used to treat various types of kidney disease. Cyclosporine was originally developed to prevent…
Dialysis and Over The Counter Medications
Allergy Medications (also called Antihistamines) It is safe to take most over the counter allergy medications in the normal doses…
Fish Oil Capsules for IgA Nephropathy
What is it? Why did my doctor prescribe or recommend it? Is it Effective? How does it work? How will…
Hepatitis B: Information for Patients
What is hepatitis B? Hepatitis B is a virus that attacks the liver. People who get hepatitis B can be…
Kayexalate
With the return of the winter season we would like to remind you of the importance of keeping a supply…
Medicines to stop taking on sick days
Are you feeling sick with symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea? If so, your body is at risk of becoming dehydrated.
Mycophenolate (Cellcept®)
Mycophenolate can be used to treat different types of kidney disease.
Phosphorous
Why do we worry about phosphorus blood levels? Phosphorus and calcium need to stay in balance in your blood. If…
Prednisone
What is it? Prednisone will decrease the inflammation in your kidneys so they can function better. Why did my doctor…
Tacrolimus (Prograf® or Advagraf®)
Tacrolimus can be used to treat various types of kidney disease.
Vitamin D pills: Calcitriol (Rocaltrol®), Alfacalcidol (One Alpha®)
Calcitriol or alfacalcidol are prescription forms of Vitamin D.
Other Helpful Links
The BC Renal Agency lists medications and corresponding information sheets
MyMedRec Iphone App that helps you keep track of your medications.