What pain medications can PKD patients safely use?
Do not use NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), because these compounds are nephrotoxic or damaging to the kidneys. NSAIDs include Ibuprofen, Aleve, and Motrin. PKD patients can use Tylenol 650-1000 mg as often as 4 times/day. If this does not handle the pain, Tramadol, Clonidine, or Amitriptyline may be added with the Tylenol on the advice of your doctor. Q: What is genetic testing? A: Determination of the mutation you carry can be done by direct DNA analysis, using a blood sample from the patient or by linkage analysis, which involves analyzing blood samples from a number of affected family members. Q: What are the negative consequences of genetic testing to determine if you have a mutation in the PKD1 or the PKD2 gene? A: The test is costly ($1,200-1,500). Since it involves having blood drawn by your doctor and being sent to the testing facility, the results become part of your medical records. As a result, there may be insurability problems at a later date, because PKD m