Taking certain medicines when you are dehydrated can result in you developing a more serious illness. Any illness that causes vomiting, diarrhoea and fever (e.g. food poisoning) can cause dehydration.
The following medications should be temporarily stopped during such an illness, until 24-48 hours after you are back to eating and drinking normally:
ACE inhibitors
A type of medication for blood pressure and heart conditions.
Examples: names ending in “pril” e.g. ramipril, enalapril, lisinopril.
Dehydration while on these can stop your kidneys working properly.Angiotensin-receptor Blocks
A type of medication for blood pressure and heart conditions.
Examples: names ending in “sartan” e.g. losartan, candesartan, valsartan.
Dehydration while on these can stop your kidneys working properly.Diuretics
Also called “water tablets” for excess fluid and high blood pressure.
Examples: Furosemide, Bendroflumethiazide, spironolactone.
Dehydration while on these can stop your kidneys working properly.Metformin
A medicine for diabetes. Dehydration while on metformin can put you at risk of developing a condition called lactic acidosis.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
Examples: Ibuprofen, naproxen, diclofenac.
Dehydration while on these can stop your kidneys working properly.
If you have any questions about your medication, please make an appointment with one of our medical staff.