A new study from scientists at the University of Waterloo has found that taking ibuprofen—a common painkiller—can be risky for people who are also using certain medications to treat high blood pressure. Many people with high blood pressure take two types of medicine: diuretics and drugs that affect something called the renin-angiotensin system (RAS).
These medicines work well to lower blood pressure. Diuretics help the body get rid of extra water and salt through urine. RAS inhibitors relax the blood vessels, which makes it easier for blood to flow. When used together, these two drugs can help prevent serious problems like heart attacks and strokes.
But this study found that adding ibuprofen to the mix can be dangerous. It may lead to serious kidney problems, especially for people who are already at risk because of other health issues or dehydration. To figure this out, the researchers used computer models to see how these three drugs—diuretics, RAS inhibitors, and ibuprofen—work inside the body.
The results showed that for some people, this combination puts too much pressure on the kidneys and can lead to acute kidney injury, which means the kidneys suddenly stop working properly. Sometimes this damage might not go away, even with treatment.
So why is this happening? Each of these drugs affects the kidneys in different ways. Diuretics reduce how much water your body holds, which can lead to dehydration. RAS inhibitors also change how the kidneys control blood flow and pressure.
When you add ibuprofen—a drug that reduces pain and swelling—it can limit blood flow to the kidneys even more. Together, this creates what the scientists call a “triple whammy,” because the kidneys are being stressed in three different ways at once. This stress can lead to injury or even long-term kidney damage.
Ibuprofen is part of a group of medicines called NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). These drugs are popular for treating pain, fever, and inflammation. Many people take them without thinking twice, especially since they’re available without a prescription. But this study shows that even everyday medications can be harmful if they interact with other drugs you’re taking.
The researchers say not everyone will have kidney problems from this combination, but the risk is real enough that people should be careful. If you have high blood pressure and are taking diuretics and RAS inhibitors, you should talk to your doctor or pharmacist before using ibuprofen.
There are other painkillers, like acetaminophen (also known as paracetamol), which may be a safer option. Acetaminophen works differently in the body and doesn’t stress the kidneys in the same way.
The main message from this study is that we should all be more aware of how different medications can affect each other. Just because a drug is sold without a prescription doesn’t mean it’s always safe to use with other medicines.
It’s especially important for people with long-term health conditions like high blood pressure to be cautious and check with their doctor before trying new medications—even simple painkillers.
This study was led by Professor Anita Layton and shows how important it is to understand how drugs work together. Keeping your blood pressure under control is important, but it’s just as important to make sure the treatment itself doesn’t cause other problems. By being careful and informed, people can stay healthier and avoid serious complications.
If you care about blood pressure, please read studies about unhealthy habits that could increase high blood pressure risk, and people with severe high blood pressure should reduce coffee intake.
For more information about blood pressure, please see recent studies that early time-restricted eating could help improve blood pressure, and results showing plant-based foods could benefit people with high blood pressure.
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