Is Ginkgo Safe for Those with Kidney Issues? Expert Insights

Medication issues

Hello Dr.
Lin, may I ask what the effects of taking ginkgo (available at pharmacies) are on the body? Does it increase the burden on the liver and kidneys? I have existing kidney issues (Cr 1.7/BUN 21/with occasional hematuria and proteinuria).
Given this situation, is it appropriate for me to take ginkgo? Would you recommend it for health maintenance purposes? Thank you.

Xiong, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/10/27

Dr. Lin Qingzhong reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

Dear Bear,
Hello! Ginkgo, also known as Bai Guo in traditional Chinese medicine, is used for treating asthma and cough, as well as for addressing issues such as leukorrhea in women and impotence in men.
Currently, the health supplements available on the market that contain ginkgo are primarily derived from ginkgo leaves and are more focused on dementia.
However, the traditional herb Bai Guo has a slight toxicity, and the dosage should not be excessive.

Wishing you well,
Director of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Lin Qingzhong

Reply Date: 2004/10/27

More Info

Ginkgo biloba, commonly known as ginkgo, is a herbal supplement that has been used for various health benefits, particularly for cognitive enhancement and improving blood circulation. However, when it comes to individuals with kidney issues, such as chronic kidney disease (CKD) or elevated creatinine levels, caution is warranted.

Safety of Ginkgo for Kidney Patients
1. Potential Risks: Ginkgo has been associated with certain side effects, including gastrointestinal upset, headaches, dizziness, and allergic skin reactions. More importantly, it can interact with various medications, particularly anticoagulants and antiplatelet drugs, increasing the risk of bleeding. For patients with compromised kidney function, the metabolism and excretion of ginkgo may be altered, potentially leading to increased side effects or toxicity.

2. Kidney Function Considerations: In patients with kidney dysfunction, the clearance of many substances is impaired. Ginkgo may not be directly harmful to the kidneys, but its effects on blood circulation and potential interactions with medications that are crucial for managing kidney disease must be considered. For instance, if a patient is on medications for hypertension or diabetes, which are common in kidney disease management, ginkgo could interfere with their efficacy or increase side effects.

3. Proteinuria and Hematuria: The presence of protein and blood in the urine (proteinuria and hematuria) indicates underlying kidney issues. While ginkgo is not known to exacerbate these conditions directly, any supplement that affects blood flow or has anticoagulant properties could theoretically complicate the clinical picture. It is essential to monitor kidney function and urinary parameters closely if ginkgo is introduced into the regimen.

Recommendations
1. Consultation with Healthcare Providers: Before starting ginkgo or any supplement, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider, particularly a nephrologist or a healthcare professional familiar with the patient's kidney condition. They can provide personalized advice based on the individual's health status, kidney function, and current medications.

2. Monitoring: If ginkgo is deemed appropriate, regular monitoring of kidney function (creatinine, BUN) and urinary parameters (protein, blood) should be conducted to ensure that there are no adverse effects from the supplement.

3. Alternative Approaches: For individuals with kidney issues, focusing on a balanced diet, hydration, and prescribed medications is often more beneficial than relying on herbal supplements. Lifestyle modifications, such as maintaining a healthy weight, controlling blood pressure, and managing blood sugar levels, are critical in preserving kidney function.

Conclusion
In summary, while ginkgo may offer certain health benefits, its use in patients with kidney issues should be approached with caution. The potential for interactions with medications, along with the altered metabolism in individuals with compromised kidney function, necessitates a thorough evaluation by a healthcare provider. Ultimately, the decision to use ginkgo should be made collaboratively between the patient and their healthcare team, ensuring that all aspects of the patient's health are considered.

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