Over the years, the use of pills to treat various illnesses has increased significantly—but so have their harmful effects on health, particularly on internal organs like the kidneys.

While medications are often essential for managing conditions, their frequent or prolonged use can seriously damage kidney function.

The kidneys play a vital role in eliminating toxins from the body. When these organs are compromised, your overall health is at risk. Some commonly used medications, even those available over the counter, can impair kidney function and cause lasting damage.

Here are some pills that should not be taken regularly due to their potential to harm the kidneys:

• Lithium: Used to treat bipolar disorder.

• Anticonvulsants: Such as phenytoin and trimethadione.

• Chemotherapy drugs: Including cisplatin, carboplatin, mitomycin C, and cyclosporine.

• Thyroid medication: Like propylthiouracil.

• Heartburn medications: Omeprazole, pantoprazole, and related drugs.

• Antivirals: Acyclovir for herpes; indinavir and tenofovir for HIV.

• Blood pressure drugs: Such as captopril.

• Rheumatic and malaria treatments: Infliximab, chloroquine, and hydroxychloroquine.

While these medications serve important medical purposes, they should only be used under proper medical supervision. Overuse or self-medication can pose serious risks to your kidney health.