What Causes Kidney Stones?

Certain Medications

Certain medications are known to increase an individual's risk of experiencing kidney stones. For example, patients who take calcium-based antacids are more likely to develop kidney stones, and those who use loop diuretics, triamterene diuretics, or anticonvulsants such as topiramate, zonisamide, or acetazolamide are at an increased risk of stone formation too. Antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin and sulfonamides are associated with an elevated chance of stone formation, and medications prescribed for asthma, congestion, and bronchial issues, including guaifenesin and ephedrine, carry an increased risk as well. Acetylsalicylic acid use increases the risk of a type of kidney stone formed from uric acid, and over-the-counter laxatives could increase this risk as well, especially if patients overuse them. Individuals should check with their doctor about all potential side effects before starting any prescription medication, and they should follow dosage recommendations on over-the-counter products. If potential kidney stone symptoms develop while using the medicine, patients should contact their doctor urgently.