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Cholesterol drugs may contribute to kidney disease

Category: Heart Health and Cholesterol

Following an unhealthy cholesterol test, many older patients are given fibrates, which are common medications used to lower cholesterol. However, new research indicates that these drugs may also harm kidney function.

For the study, a team of investigators from the Lawson Health Research Institute tracked the health of a group of more than 20,000 older adults during their first 90 days taking fibrates. The results showed that many of these individuals had higher levels of creatinine in their blood, which is an indicator of poor kidney function.

Creatinine is a waste product that results from metabolic processes in the muscles. When the kidneys are functioning properly, the organs filter the substance from the blood. However, people with impaired kidney function tend to have higher levels.

The researchers said the process by which fibrates contribute to kidney problems is not entirely clear. Future studies will need to determine this before they can recommend against fibrate treatment.

However, the team said the findings should give physicians pause before prescribing fibrates, particularly to older patients who are at risk for kidney complications.