If you take medication for high blood pressure, you may need to be careful before using ibuprofen, a common pain reliever. A new study from the University of Waterloo warns that mixing ibuprofen with certain blood pressure drugs could harm your kidneys.
The researchers looked at two common types of blood pressure medications—diuretics and renin-angiotensin system (RAS) inhibitors. These drugs are often used together to help lower blood pressure. Diuretics remove excess water from the body, while RAS inhibitors relax blood vessels. Many people rely on these medications to manage hypertension.
Ibuprofen, found in many over-the-counter painkillers, is widely used for headaches, muscle pain, and inflammation. However, the study found that taking it along with diuretics and RAS inhibitors could lead to serious kidney problems.
How These Drugs Affect the Kidneys
To understand the risks, the researchers used computer models to simulate how these drugs interact in the body. Their findings showed that in some people, the combination of all three drugs could cause acute kidney injury. This means the kidneys suddenly stop working properly, and in severe cases, the damage could be permanent.
The problem happens because these drugs put extra strain on the kidneys. Diuretics reduce the body’s water levels, which can lead to dehydration. When combined with RAS inhibitors and ibuprofen, this creates what scientists call a “triple whammy” effect. The kidneys struggle to function properly under this pressure, increasing the risk of harm.
Not everyone taking these medications will have kidney issues. However, the study highlights a real risk, especially for people with certain health conditions.
A Safer Option for Pain Relief
If you take diuretics and RAS inhibitors for high blood pressure and need pain relief, acetaminophen (also known as paracetamol) may be a safer choice. Unlike ibuprofen, acetaminophen does not cause the same kidney stress when combined with these medications.
The researchers, led by Anita Layton, stress the importance of being aware of drug interactions—even with medications you can buy without a prescription. Before taking ibuprofen or any pain reliever, people on blood pressure medications should talk to their doctor or pharmacist.
By being careful, you can avoid unnecessary risks and keep your kidneys healthy while managing your blood pressure safely.
If you care about high blood pressure, please read studies about unhealthy habits that may increase high blood pressure risk, and drinking green tea could help lower blood pressure.
For more information about high blood pressure, please see recent studies about what to eat or to avoid for high blood pressure, and 12 foods that lower blood pressure.
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