20 Surprising Factors That Can Harm Your Kidneys

12. Long-term Effects of Excessive Painkiller Use

Painkillers are commonly used to alleviate pain, but their long-term effects are often overlooked. Analgesics, including over-the-counter medications like aspirin, acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and naproxen sodium, provide relief from pain. However, when taken excessively or over an extended period, they can pose risks to the kidneys.

Most medications that have the potential to cause kidney damage are eliminated from the body through the kidneys since the liver does not break them down. This means that when these drugs are excreted through urine, they can impact kidney function. Analgesics have been linked to two types of kidney damage: acute renal failure and chronic kidney disease, known as analgesic nephropathy.

It's important to note that these kidney problems typically occur when painkillers are taken in high amounts over a prolonged period. For example, research has shown that nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can cause kidney issues. It is estimated that 3% of chronic kidney diseases each year are attributed to excessive use of these drugs, both over-the-counter and prescription.

To minimize the risk of kidney damage, it's crucial to use painkillers as directed and consult a doctor for proper dosage or alternative treatment options. It's also important to avoid taking more than the recommended dose or combining multiple painkillers.