PPIs Can Cause Acute Kidney Inflammation
Can Proton Pump Inhibitors Cause Acute Kidney Inflammation?
Yes, proton pump inhibitors can cause acute interstitial nephritis, a serious form of kidney inflammation that can lead to acute kidney injury and potentially permanent kidney damage if not recognized and treated promptly. This condition typically occurs as an idiosyncratic drug reaction that can develop weeks to months after starting PPI therapy, regardless of dose or duration of use.
Dr. Kumar’s Take
This is one of the more serious but underrecognized complications of PPI therapy. Unlike other PPI side effects that develop gradually, acute interstitial nephritis can happen suddenly and cause significant kidney damage. What’s particularly challenging is that it’s unpredictable - it can occur in anyone taking PPIs, regardless of dose or how long they’ve been on the medication. The key is awareness and prompt recognition, because stopping the PPI early can prevent permanent kidney damage, but delayed diagnosis can lead to chronic kidney disease.