Q: I have been taking Enalapril 20 and Hydrochlorothiaside and Synthroid 88 for the last year. I received a notice from my Pharmacy that it may increase the risk of acute renal dysfunction in female patients over 61 years of age. I will contact my Dr. and Pharmacist however I was wondering if you have any information about this? Puzzled
A: As a natural part of aging, your kidneys slow down. Because of this, the older kidney is more prone to bad effects from drugs. The drugs you are are taking for your blood pressure can affect kidney function. You received a standard warning. I am sure your doctor checks your kidney function as part of your routine visits. For more information about aging and the kidney go to this page at the U.S. National Library of Medicine site.
Further to a blood test I asked my GP what he means by ‘Normal’ kidney function. His reply was that my result was ‘normal’ for my age.
A twenty year old’s should be 90(whatever they are) to 120. A 65 year old should have a normal reading of about 70. If you are down to 15 you would be on a kidney machine. Mine was in fact 78 so although I’m taking blood pressure medication I’m ok so far.Someone in my position could be expected to be down to about 60.