Pills are widely used to treat illnesses, but frequent use of certain medications can harm your internal organs—especially your kidneys, which filter toxins and are vital to your health.

Some commonly used drugs can cause kidney damage when taken regularly, including:

• Lithium – for bipolar disorder

• Anticonvulsants – like phenytoin and trimethadione

• Chemotherapy drugs – such as cisplatin, carboplatin, interferons, and cyclosporine

• Thyroid meds – like propylthiouracil

• Heartburn medications – omeprazole, lansoprazole, pantoprazole, etc.

• Antivirals – acyclovir (herpes), indinavir and tenofovir (HIV)

• Blood pressure meds – captopril

• Bone/joint treatments – infliximab (arthritis), chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine (malaria, lupus)

Even though these are available in pharmacies, overuse or long-term use may lead to pain and kidney issues. Always consult a doctor before prolonged use.