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Painkillers & Antibiotics: Your Kidneys at Risk!
24 Sep
Summary
- Repeated painkiller use may harm kidneys, warns drug regulator.
- Self-medicating with antibiotics poses significant health risks.
- India faces a high prevalence of chronic kidney disease.
The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) has issued a critical advisory urging caution regarding the use of painkillers and antibiotics. Repeated or prolonged use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), commonly taken for everyday aches, without medical advice can lead to kidney complications. This is particularly concerning given India's high prevalence of chronic kidney disease, estimated at 13.24% in a recent review.
Self-medication with antibiotics is also strongly discouraged. The advisory reiterates that both NSAIDs and antibiotics are prescription medicines that should only be used under strict medical supervision, at appropriate doses and durations. Doctors are advised to use the lowest effective NSAID dose for the shortest necessary period, with heightened vigilance for at-risk patients. Judicious antibiotic use, avoiding unnecessary combinations and prolonged treatments, is also stressed.
Recent findings indicate excessive consumption of high-resistance potential antibiotics alongside inadequate use of recommended first-line treatments. Pharmacists, retailers, hospitals, and state regulators are being directed to enforce prescription rules and strengthen oversight to mitigate risks like kidney damage and antimicrobial resistance. This national effort aims to curb the dangers associated with widespread self-medication.
