Antibiotics Increase Kidney Stone Risk

Oral antibiotics may raise the risk of kidney stones, and for children the risk is significantly higher. A recent study tracked antibiotic exposure 3 to 12 months before diagnosis in about 26,000 people with kidney stones. Results showed that oral exposure to any of the 5 classes of antibiotics significantly raised the risk of kidney stones. While the mechanism behind the association is unknown, researchers hypothesize that the effects of antibiotics on the gut and/or urinary microbiome is to blame. Journal of the American Society of Nephrology

→Takeaway: This association reiterates the risk-benefit analysis that must take place when deciding to take an antibiotic. For a list of questions to ask your doctor when being prescribed an antibiotic, as well as what to do if you are taking an antibiotic, read The Microbiome Solution.