Updated September 25, 2026. Fact-checked against veterinary sources; review by a licensed veterinarian is in progress. See our editorial policy.
Quick answer: Dogs with chronic kidney disease may take several medications: drugs to reduce protein in the urine (such as benazepril or telmisartan), blood pressure medication (amlodipine), phosphate binders, anti-nausea drugs, appetite stimulants, and sometimes fluids under the skin. Doses depend on kidney function and are adjusted based on bloodwork, so they must come from your vet. Many common drugs, including NSAIDs, need extra caution.
This guide doesn’t give doses.
Common medications
- Protein-reducing drugs: benazepril, enalapril, or telmisartan, with bloodwork rechecks after starting
- Blood pressure medication: amlodipine
- Phosphate binders: mixed into food
- Anti-nausea drugs: maropitant, ondansetron
- Acid reducers: only when ulcers are suspected
- Appetite stimulants
- Subcutaneous fluids at home in later stages
- Treatment for anemia in advanced disease
Drugs that need caution
- NSAIDs
- Some antibiotics
- Any new medication, since doses may need adjusting for reduced kidney function
Safety tips
- Keep a current medication list
- Don’t stop medications without your vet
- Report vomiting, weakness, or appetite changes
- Keep rechecks for bloodwork and blood pressure
More: kidney disease in senior dogs.
Sources
- International Renal Interest Society (IRIS): Staging of CKD and treatment recommendations
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Chronic kidney disease in small animals
- Acierno MJ, et al. ACVIM consensus statement: Guidelines for the identification, evaluation, and management of systemic hypertension in dogs and cats. J Vet Intern Med. 2018
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for care from your own veterinarian. Learn about The Pet Vet and our editorial policy.