Khaberni - Two health organizations in the UK have issued an important warning about a commonly used pain reliever worldwide, stating that it could affect kidney functions and may lead to complete kidney damage, urging users to exercise caution regarding its use.
According to the British newspaper "Independent", in a report seen by "Al Arabiya Net", this pain reliever that could harm the kidneys is "Ibuprofen", which is widely used and generally does not require a prescription as users can buy it directly from pharmacies and take it to relieve pain.
Kidney Care UK and the National Pharmacy Association (NPA) have warned people most at risk of kidney diseases, including those with diabetes or high blood pressure, to be very cautious.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen, naproxen, and diclofenac, can increase blood pressure and damage blood vessels within the kidneys.
Olivier Picard, president of the National Pharmacy Association, said: "Drugs have the capacity to harm as well as to heal," adding: "Although non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, like ibuprofen, are effective and safe medications, patients should be aware of their effects, especially if they are more susceptible to kidney diseases, and consider using alternative medications when necessary."
Picard continued: "If a patient has any concerns about using non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, they should consult their pharmacist who can provide advice," adding that "pharmacists are experts in medications, and they are best suited to offer advice to people who may be concerned about any potential long-term side effects of some drugs, and they can help patients manage pain effectively."
About 7.2 million people in the UK alone suffer from some form of chronic kidney disease, which usually shows no symptoms in its early stages.
The Kidney Care Foundation in the UK estimates that about one million people have not yet been diagnosed.
The groups most susceptible to this disease include: people with diabetes, people with high blood pressure, individuals with a family history of kidney disease, and members of the Black and South Asian communities.
Fiona Loud, Policy Director at the Kidney Care Foundation in the UK, explained that "kidney disease can affect anyone at any time and can have a devastating impact on their life and relationships, as well as on their financial, physical, and mental health."
Among the 295,000 people who completed the kidney health survey conducted by the charity between October 2024 and March 2026, nearly a quarter of them (24%) reported that they regularly use over-the-counter pain relievers.
Loud added: "You may lose up to 90% of your kidney functions without realizing it, so it's important to be aware of the signs to watch for, know if you are at increased risk, and what to do if you are concerned."
