Is Safe To Smoke Marijuana When Suffering From Kidney Problem?

Posted on Sat, 11 Jan 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 11 Jan 2014 Answered on

Thu, 6 Feb 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : Hello i have a damaged kidney from a bad toxin i put into my body. I have stopped my smoking my prescription marijuana for my arthritis because i fear it will make my kidney worse because it still hurts. The same thing happened to a friend of mine and he said all i need to do is rest and wait for my kidney to heal. Should I wait until my kidney is healed to smoke or will it not affect my kidney?

Answered by Dr. Praveen (1 hour later)

Brief Answer: Marijuana is not safe Detailed Answer: Hello, Marijuana can cause renal failure and there are reports of renal infarction(death of renal tissue). It's better to avoid Marijuana. I would treat by using hydroxychloroquin and leflunamide for your arthritis & these drugs are renoprotective. Usage of splints will reduce pain and swelling. Striking a balance between exercise and rest is important to avoid stiffness and joint pain due to arthritis. Easy stretching exercises give pain relief. Hope this answers your question. Thanks.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Shanthi.E