If you take medication for high blood pressure, you might want to think twice before using ibuprofen, a common pain reliever. A new study from the University of Waterloo found that combining ibuprofen with certain blood pressure medications could lead to serious kidney problems.
Why This Combination Is Risky
Many people with high blood pressure take a combination of diuretics and renin-angiotensin system (RAS) inhibitorsto manage their condition:
- Diuretics help the body get rid of extra water and salt, lowering blood pressure.
- RAS inhibitors relax blood vessels, making it easier for the heart to pump blood.
These two drugs are often prescribed together and are widely used under different brand names.
Ibuprofen, on the other hand, is an over-the-counter painkiller used for headaches, muscle pain, and other aches. While it’s generally safe for most people, the study found that combining ibuprofen with diuretics and RAS inhibitors could harm the kidneys.
What the Study Found
Using computer-simulated drug trials, researchers examined how these three drugs interact in the body, especially their effects on the kidneys. They found that in some cases, this combination caused acute kidney injury, a serious condition where the kidneys suddenly stop working properly. In some situations, the damage could even become permanent.
The reason? Diuretics can cause dehydration by reducing the body’s fluid levels. When you add a RAS inhibitor and ibuprofen to the mix, the kidneys come under extra stress, leading to what researchers call a “triple whammy” effect. This increases the risk of kidney damage.
Who Is at Risk?
Not everyone who takes this combination will have kidney problems. However, people with certain health conditions or those who are already at risk for kidney disease may be more vulnerable.
To stay safe, anyone taking diuretics and RAS inhibitors should be cautious before using ibuprofen.
What Can You Do Instead?
If you need pain relief, the study suggests that acetaminophen (paracetamol) is a safer option for people on high blood pressure medications. Unlike ibuprofen, acetaminophen does not increase the risk of kidney damage when taken with these drugs.
Talk to Your Doctor
The study, led by Anita Layton, is a reminder that even over-the-counter medications can have serious effects when combined with prescription drugs. If you take medication for high blood pressure, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before using ibuprofen or any other pain reliever.
By being cautious, you can avoid potential kidney damage and keep your treatment plan safe and effective.
Copyright © 2025 Knowridge Science Report. All rights reserved.
