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How Do Drugs Affect The Kidneys And Creatinine Levels?

Posted on Thu, 2 Oct 2014

Question: How do drugs affect the kidneys and creatinine levels? I take 60mg of Adderall per day in addition to 150mg Wellbutrin and 1.5mg Xanax. I recently got a blood test done and the creatinine level was 1.33 (slightly over the 0.4-1.2 reference range). 2 months before that test my creatinine level was 1.36 All the other labs are normal and I'm in otherwise good health. How likely is it that any of the prescription drugs are a cause of my upper-end serum creatinine serum levels? I also lift weights 5 days a week with heavy weight and high intensity and am more muscular than average. I also take 10 grams of creatine per day. I drink about 160oz of water per day also. Should I be concerned enough to cold-turkey all medicines and supplements? Should I lower my protein intake and cut back on lifting? Thanks.

Answered by Dr. Anshul Varshney (24 hours later)

Brief Answer:
I need further details

Detailed Answer:
Dear Friend.
Welcome to Healthcaremagic.
Hi, I am Dr Anshul Varshney , I have read your query in detail , I understand your concern.
Drugs which have metabolism through kidneys can effect the kidneys by causing damage to their tubules.
The drugs you are taking are not highly nephrotoxic, but yes Adderall can effect kidneys.
However, before we blame any drug for this, we should be sure about the other causes which can injure kidneys.
High Protein and Creatine diet and supplements can harm the kidneys, especially by elevation of uric acid.
I would like to know following details before i can help you better:
1. Why did you get kidney function tests done? Any problem you had or routine?
2. Any history of diabetes or Hypertension?
3. What is your blood pressure level?
4. How is your Urine output?
5. Your hemoglobin levels?
6. Any pain killers you are taking?
7. have you got your urine examination, Serum Uric acid, Ultrasound of kidneys and bladder done?

This is my personal opinion based on details available here. If you still have any other query, you may please ask me and answer these questions preferably in point wise manner.
Stay Healthy.
Dr Anshul Varshney , MD

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Anshul Varshney (5 hours later)

Hi, I have provided some attachments. Please review them.

Answered by Dr. Anshul Varshney (6 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Detail Follows.

Detailed Answer:
Dear Friend
I have reviewed the attachments.
It seems that the kidney is being effected. We need to find out the cause.
i advise you to get following:
1. Ultrasound Kidney and Bladder - to see for kidney size and any evidence of stone or obstruction
2. Serum Uric Acid levels.
3. Urine Routine and Microscopy- To find out if any albumin or protein is passing out in urine.

Till then, don't take any pain killers.
Stop consuming high protein diet.
Consume lots of water.
Don't take any pain killers.

Review with me again with the above mentioned reports.
Stay Healthy

Note: For further queries related to kidney problems and comprehensive renal care, talk to a Nephrologist. Click here to Book a Consultation.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar