Kidney pain can be caused by problems such as stones, infections, or inflammation, and treatment depends on identifying the underlying cause. Doctors may recommend medications like pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, or antispasmodics to help ease discomfort and reduce urinary tract spasms.
Knowing how to relieve kidney pain often involves using the right medication to manage symptoms safely. Options like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help with pain, while antibiotics may be needed when infection is the cause.
In some cases, natural remedies such as stone breaker tea or hibiscus tea may support medical treatment and help improve kidney function. Staying well hydrated and using warm compresses can also help relieve kidney pain and promote recovery.
Pharmacy medications
The most commonly recommended medications for kidney pain are:
1. Pain relievers (analgesics)
Pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) are typically used for mild to moderate kidney pain. They work by blocking the production of pain-causing chemicals in the body. This can help ease discomfort caused by kidney stones or infections.
These medications are available as tablets, oral solutions, or suppositories.
2. Anti-inflammatory medications
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve) can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with conditions such as kidney stones or infections. They work by lowering levels of prostaglandins and cytokines, substances that trigger inflammation.
These medications can be taken orally or as rectal suppositories, as directed by your doctor.
3. Antispasmodics
Antispasmodic medications help relax the muscles of the urinary tract, reducing cramps and pain caused by kidney stones. While scopolamine (Buscopan) and Tropinal (a hyoscyamine combination) are commonly prescribed in some countries, they are not approved for use in the United States.
FDA-approved alternatives include hyoscyamine (Levsin) or dicyclomine (Bentyl), which can provide similar relief for urinary tract spasms. These are available as tablets or oral solutions.
4. Antibiotics
If your kidney pain is caused by a bacterial infection, such as pyelonephritis, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics like trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim) or ciprofloxacin (Cipro). These medications work to eliminate bacteria and relieve pain caused by the infection.
Antibiotics can be taken at home in tablet form or given intravenously in hospitals for more severe infections.
Home remedies for kidney pain
Along with medical treatment, some home remedies can help ease discomfort and support kidney health:
1. Stone breaker tea (Phyllanthus niruri)
Also known as chanca piedra, this herbal tea is often used to help prevent or break down kidney stones. It contains compounds with natural pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects.
To make it, steep 20 g of dried Phyllanthus niruri in 1 liter of boiling water for 5–10 minutes. Strain and drink warm. While chanca piedra is available in supplement form in the US, always consult a healthcare professional before use.
Also recommended: Home Remedies for Kidney Stones: 12 Teas & Natural Remedies tuasaude.com/en/home-remedies-for-kidney-stones2. Hibiscus tea
Hibiscus tea acts as a natural diuretic and may help increase urine output and reduce inflammation linked to kidney stones or infections. However, it should be avoided during an active kidney stone episode unless your doctor says otherwise.
To prepare it, steep 1 tablespoon of dried hibiscus flowers in 400 mL of boiling water for about 5 minutes. Strain and drink warm up to three times a day.
3. Warm compresses
Applying warm compresses to your lower back can help soothe pain from kidney infections or inflammation. It’s also important to stay hydrated by drinking around 2 liters (8 cups) of water daily to help flush bacteria and toxins from the urinary system.
Resting and avoiding strenuous activity can also help your kidneys recover more quickly.