Information About Stage 5 Chronic Kidney Disease

Definition: Kidney failure
GFR: (> 15 ml / min)
Goal: Dialysis may need to begin, if the disease cannot be controlled by medications; it will vary per patient and your doctor will work with you to finalize your plans
Possible Clinical Actions:
• Kidney replacement therapy (if uremia present and patient wishes)

IMPORTANT: If you have CKD Stage 4 or 5, check with your nephrologist before starting the common antibiotic Bactrim (sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim) as this can worsen kidney disease.

MEDICATIONS TO AVOID:
NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatories): These medications are often given for the treatment of arthritis or inflammation. Some examples are Motrin, Aleve (naproxen), Advil (Ibuprofen), Celebrex (celecoxib), Mobic (meloxicam), Relafen, Goody’s Powder, and more.

An alternative to NSAIDs is Tylenol (acetaminophen), which is a safe over-the-counter medication to take for pain, headache, etc.

An 81mg aspirin is also safe to take.

Many other medications may be unsafe to take due to your kidney disease. Our nephrologists are available to discuss any changes in your medications to make sure they are safe for your level of kidney disease.

"We are so grateful for Gail Kirby and Dr. Purcell. They discovered serious issues with my husband that were corrected a couple of years ago. I have been in healthcare for almost 40 years and understand good healthcare. Gail Kirby and Dr. Purcell certainly go above and beyond with their care at Carolina Nephrology."