Could an inflammation relief supplement harm the kidneys?

Question

Hi doctor,

I have low-risk smoldering multiple myeloma (SMM) and a free light chain (FLC) ratio of 22. I understand that FLC SMM can pose challenges for kidney health, and I have also been experiencing a considerable amount of inflammation. To address this, I take a product that contains the following ingredients:

150 mg Glucosamine.
150 mg Chondroitin.
100 mg Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM).
100 mg Hyaluronic acid.
60 mg Thuja.
60 mg of ginger.
60 mg Willow bark.
60 mg aloe vera.
60 mg green tea.
60 mg Harpagophyte.

I would like to know if any of these ingredients could be harmful to my kidneys. While the product helps with my inflammation, I do not want to compromise my kidney function. My estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) has decreased from 99 to 69 over the past year.

Please guide.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understand your concern.

As you have a diagnosis of smoldering multiple myeloma (SMM), you should be aware of and avoid medications that may be harmful. Most of your current medications are safe and do not have significant adverse effects on the kidneys, except for Willow bark and, to some extent, Harpagophyte.

Can you share your formulation without these two products? Harpagophyte has mild renal effects, while Willow bark can impair renal function, as noted in the literature. I generally do not prescribe these medications to my patients, and I recommend consulting your nephrologist for further guidance on this matter.

All other ingredients are pretty safe and do not have any significant impact on renal function. Additionally, maintain close follow-up with your hematologist for regular monitoring of your SMM.

The risk of progression increases if:

1. The abnormal free light chain (FLC) ratio is significantly deranged: FLC ratio <0.1 or >10 indicates a significantly higher risk, as these patients exhibit behavior more similar to higher-risk monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS).

2. The high absolute involved FLC level: An involved FLC level >100 mg/L increases risk, as it suggests a more active plasma cell clone.

3. Coexisting features: Presence of ≥10 % clonal plasma cells (indicating SMM rather than MGUS). Rising involved FLC levels over time. Presence of urine monoclonal protein.

I hope I have addressed all your questions. If there is anything else, please let me know.

Thank you.