Medications

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? Tiredness                                 Weakness                    Headache                     Shortness of breathLow energyFeeling coldDecreased sexual driveDifficulty concentrating While these symptoms are common to most people …
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Azathioprine

Click for Printable PDF What is it? Azathioprine is used to treat various types of kidney disease. Why did my doctor prescribe or recommend it? Healthy kidneys filter out …
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Coughs, Colds & the Flu

Information for People with Kidney Disease Click for Printable PDF Introduction The common cold is an easily spread and easily contracted illness. The average person can expect …
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Cyclophosphamide

Click for Printable PDF What is it? Cyclophosphamide can be used to treat various types of kidney disease. Cyclophosphamide was originally developed as a treatment for cancer and …
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Cyclosporine

Click for Printable PDF What is it? Cyclosporine can be used to treat various types of kidney disease. Cyclosporine was originally developed to prevent organ rejection in …
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Kayexalate

Click for Printable PDF With the return of the winter season, we would like to remind you of the importance of keeping a supply of …
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Phosphorous

Click for Printable PDF Why do we worry about phosphorus blood levels? Phosphorus and calcium need to stay in balance in your blood. If your phosphorus or …
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Prednisone

Click for Printable PDF What is it? Prednisone will decrease the inflammation in your kidneys so they can function better. Why did my doctor prescribe or …
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Other Helpful Links

The BC Renal Agency lists medications and corresponding information sheets

MyMedRec iPhone App that helps you keep track of your medications