Does Pristiq affect the kidneys? (3+ findings)
By
Ivan Kahwa
Author bio
Mr Ivan Kahwa is a chemist and phytopharmaceutical scientist with expertise in chemistry, pharmacology, phytochemistry, and Nanobiotechnology. He writes and reviews content on these topics.
Mr Ivan Kahwa’s Highlights:
Guest Researcher at the University of Leipzig, Senior Research Fellow/Scientist, and Lecturer at the Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
Professional Experience:
Mr Ivan joined PHARMBIOTRAC as a research fellow/scientist during his master of science tenure. He contributed to the development of most of the phytopharmaceutical products in the project. Furthermore, he participated in carrying out the pharmacological activities of the developed products in laboratory animals such as mice and rats in order to develop proper doses hence leading to pre-clinical studies.
With the above relevant research experience, Ivan started to work with the University of Leipzig on collaborative projects with Mbarara University to develop the chemistry of Ugandan Medicinal plants and their pharmacological activities. This was coupled with several consultative positions by different German NGOs. Mr. Kahwa is also a supporting in the teaching and learning at the Departments of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
With the increase in antimicrobial resistance globally, Ivan retooled his thinking towards developing new naturally derived antibiotic regimens from Ugandan propolis with the assistance of nanotechnology to improve their delivery to microbial cells. Kahwa has also published over 28 articles in peer-reviewed journals and he is currently reviewing for many journals.
Education:
2023-2027: PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences (ongoing) with a focus on Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Nanobiology at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
2022: 2Msc. in Pharmacognosy and Natural Medicine Science at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
2018: Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
Publications:
▪ Iqbal, S., Jabeen, F., Kahwa, I., & Omara, T. 2023. Suberosin Alleviates Thiazolidinedione-Induced Cardiomyopathy in Diabetic Rats by Inhibiting Ferroptosis via Modulation of ACSL4-LPCAT3 and PI3K-AKT Signaling Pathways. Cardiovascular Toxicology. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12012-023-09804-7
▪ Gupta, A. K., Yadav, R., Sharma, S., Sawale, J., & Kahwa, I. 2023. Anti-ageing Activity and Antioxidant Activity of Methanol Extracts of Leaves and Flowers of Salvia officinalis and Rosmarinus officinalis. Journal of Young Pharmacists, 15(3), 448–455. https://doi.org/10.5530/jyp.2023.15.60
▪ Tolo, C.U., Kahwa, I., Nuwagira, U., Weisheit, A. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Medicinal plants used in treatment of various diseases in the Rwenzori Region, Western Uganda. Ethnobotany Research and Applications, 25, pp.1-16.
https://ethnobotanyjournal.org/index.php/era/article/view/4683
▪ Kahwa, I., Ajayi, C.O., Yadav, R., Chauhan, N.S., Shah, K., Abdelgadir, A.A., Shegena, E.A., Daniel, S., Omara, T., Asiimwe, J.B. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Pharmacognostic and phytochemical studies as an invaluable approach for correct identification of medicinal plants: The case of Artemisia vulgaris L. substituted for Artemisia annua L. in Western Uganda. TMR Integr Med, 7, p.e23004.
https://doi.org/10.53388/TMRIM202307004
▪ Nalimu, F., Oloro, J., Kahwa, I. and Ogwang, P.E., 2021. Review on the phytochemistry and toxicological profiles of Aloe vera and Aloe ferox. Future Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 7, pp.1-21.
https://doi.org/10.1186/s43094-021-00296-2
▪ Elamin, O.H.S., Ali, M.A., Elgezuli, I.A.A., Bashir, M.A. and Kahwa, I., 2021. Diagnosis of pre-and post-treatment of echinococcus granulosus with counter current immune electrophoresis and bacterial co-agglutination. Journal of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, 11(02), pp.88-94.
https://doi.org/10.5799/jmid.951600
Published book Chapter
▪ Kahwa, I., Ayesiga, I., Nakalema, S., Alinaiswe, R., Mbabazi, R. and Iqbal, S., 2023. Natural products in the management of onchocerciasis. In Natural Products in Vector-Borne Disease Management (pp. 63-80). Academic Press. Book Chapter.
https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-323-91942-5.00012-4
Submitted manuscripts Under Review:
▪ Comparison of the Wound Healing Activity of the Leaf and Leaf Ash Extracts of Vernonia amygdalina in Rats. Journal name: Clinical Phytoscience
▪ Ethnobotanical Survey of Medicinal plants used in the management of cancer in Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Herbal Medicine
▪ Ethnobotanical survey and phytochemical screening of medicinal plants used in treatment of epilepsy by PROMETRA-Uganda Traditional Health Practitioners in Mpigi District, Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Ethnopharmacology
Submitted book chapters under review
1.Book title: Algae as a Natural Solution for Water-Food-Energy Nexus, Section 4: Microalgae and cyanobacteria for food applications, Chapter 4.6: Safety, toxicological and allergenic aspects of using algae for food. Authors: Christine Kyarimpa, Tom Omute, Caroline K. Nakiguli, Alice V. Khanakwa4, Christopher Angiro, Ivan Kahwa, Fortunate Ahumuza, Timothy Omara*. Publisher: Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 152 Beach Road, #21-01/04 Gateway East, Singapore 189721, Singapore.
2.Book title: Nutraceuticals Inspiring the Contemporary Therapy for Lifestyle Diseases. Chapter: Nutraceutical applications of Seaweeds and their Phytocompounds in Nutrition and Treatment of Diseases. Authors: Ivan Kahwa, Timothy Omara , Innocent Ayesiga , Gael Noel Neh Neba Ambe , Zehbanaz Javidbhai Panwala , Rachel Mbabazi , Shabnoor Iqbal , Christine Kyarimpa , Christine Betty Nagawa , Kamal Shah ,Nagendra Singh Chauhan* Publisher: CRC Press
You can view my works on the following professional sites:
Research Gate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ivan-Kahwa
Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=tOwrvqoAAAAJ&hl=en
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6440-3437
Linkedin: https://de.linkedin.com/in/ivan-kahwa-865450159
In this article, we will discuss whether or not Pristiq affects the kidneys, scientific studies indicating a link between Pristiq and kidney problems, precautions and guidelines for Pristiq usage in patients with kidney issues, what you should do if Pristiq causes kidney problems, and alternative treatment options for individuals with kidney problems and depression.
Does Pristiq affect the kidneys?
Yes, Pristiq can affect the kidneys. In certain cases, it may result in kidney problems and alter kidney function. The risk is higher in patients with underlying kidney diseases or those who are taking medications that may have an adverse effect on kidney function.
Pristiq is the brand name of the antidepressant medication desvenlafaxine. It belongs to the class of drugs known as SNRIs (Serotonin and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors). Pristiq functions by increasing serotonin and norepinephrine levels in the brain. (1)
The exact mechanism of action by which Pristiq affects the kidneys is not fully understood. However, Pristiq can cause dehydration and electrolyte imbalance (hyponatremia), which may lead to decreased blood flow to the kidneys, reducing their ability to filter waste and excess fluids from the body. (2)
What does research suggest?
A research study was conducted to evaluate the pharmacokinetics, safety, and tolerability of desvenlafaxine (Pristiq) in both healthy volunteers and those with renal impairment.
A 100 mg dose of desvenlafaxine was given to healthy subjects and individuals with mild, moderate, and severe renal impairment. Plasma and urine samples were collected for 72 hours post-dosing in healthy patients and 144 hours post-dosing in patients with renal impairment to examine the levels of desvenlafaxine.
The results of the study showed that the half-life of Pristiq was prolonged in patients with renal impairment.
The study concluded that desvenlafaxine 100mg per day, which is twice the recommended therapeutic dose for MDD (Major Depressive Disorder), was generally safe and well-tolerated in both healthy and individuals with renal impairment.
However, it is recommended to adjust the dosage of desvenlafaxine in patients with severe renal impairment or ESRD (End-Stage Renal Disease). (3)
The guidelines for Pristiq use in people with kidney diseases
There are certain guidelines for Pristiq use in patients with kidney diseases such as: (4), (5)
- It is essential to drink plenty of water while taking Pristiq, at least 6-8 cups of water per day to eliminate the drug more rapidly and avoid further precipitation.
- Engage in physical activity. Regular exercise can help improve your kidney function.
- Limit your alcohol, nicotine, and caffeine intake. They can exacerbate kidney dysfunction while taking Pristiq.
- Maintain a healthy and nutritious diet that is rich in vegetables, whole grains, and fruits. A healthy diet can improve your overall kidney function while taking Pristiq.
- You should inform your healthcare provider about any co-existing medical conditions such as diabetes, liver diseases, heart diseases, or hypertension. These diseases may have a major impact on kidney function and may eventually result in renal damage.
- Inform your healthcare providers about the medications that you take. Certain medications such as ACE inhibitors, NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs), and anti-seizure medications can induce renal impairment in certain cases.
Do patients with renal insufficiency require Pristiq dosage adjustment?
Yes, patients with renal insufficiency require Pristiq dosage adjustment. (5)
- The recommended dose of Pristiq for patients with kidney diseases such as renal impairment is 50 mg per day. Pristiq can be taken either in the morning or at night. However, you should take the dose every day at the same time.
- If you have severe renal impairment ESRD (End-Stage Renal Disease), the recommended dose is 50 mg every other day. This dose should not be increased in ESRD patients.
- If your kidney problems worsen despite reducing Pristiq’s dose, your healthcare provider might discontinue the medication and switch you to a more suitable alternative.
What are the alternatives to Pristiq if it causes kidney damage?
There are certain alternatives to Pristiq if it causes kidney damage such as: (6)
Nortriptyline: It is an antidepressant that belongs to the class of drugs known as TCAs (Tri-Cyclic Antidepressants). Nortriptyline is shown to be effective in patients with renal impairment and requires no dose adjustments.
Doxepin: It is an antidepressant that belongs to the class of drugs known as TCAs (Tri-Cyclic Antidepressants). Doxepin is also shown to be effective in treating depression and requires no dose adjustment in patients with renal impairment.
Based on my knowledge and research, Pristiq can affect kidney functions in certain individuals. In my opinion, every person differs in their response to different medications and most people don’t experience kidney dysfunction while using Pristiq.
However, if you experience kidney problems while taking Pristiq, consult your healthcare provider about reducing your medication dose or switching to an alternative with fewer adverse events.
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References
1.-
Naseeruddin R, Rosani A, Marwaha R. Desvenlafaxine [Internet]. PubMed. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2020. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK534829/
2.-
Desvenlafaxine (Oral Route) Side Effects – Mayo Clinic [Internet]. www.mayoclinic.org. Available from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/desvenlafaxine-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20071583?p=1
3.-
Nichols AI, Richards LS, Behrle JA, Posener JA, McGrory SB, Paul J. The pharmacokinetics and safety of desvenlafaxine in subjects with chronic renal impairment. International Journal of Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics [Internet]. 2011 Jan 1 [cited 2023 Nov 28];49(1):3–13. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21176719/
4.-
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Preventing Chronic Kidney Disease | NIDDK [Internet]. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. 2019. Available from: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/kidney-disease/chronic-kidney-disease-ckd/prevention
5.-
HIGHLIGHTS OF PRESCRIBING INFORMATION [Internet]. Available from: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2012/021992s030lbl.pdf
6.-
Susan Hedayati S, Yalamanchili V, Finkelstein FO. A practical approach to the treatment of depression in patients with chronic kidney disease and end-stage renal disease. Kidney International [Internet]. 2012 Feb;81(3):247–55. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3258342/
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