A new study from the University of Waterloo warns that using ibuprofen, a common painkiller, along with certain blood pressure medications could be dangerous.
The research focused on people taking a mix of diuretics and renin-angiotensin system (RAS) inhibitors—two drugs often used together to control high blood pressure.
Diuretics help the body get rid of extra water, which lowers blood pressure. RAS inhibitors work by relaxing blood vessels so blood can flow more easily. Both drugs are important for treating high blood pressure and preventing serious health problems like heart attacks and strokes.
However, the study found that adding ibuprofen to this combination could raise the risk of kidney damage, especially for people with other health issues.
The scientists used computer models to study how these three drugs interact. They found that in some cases, the combination can cause acute kidney injury. This means the kidneys stop working properly and may not recover fully.
One problem is that diuretics can make you dehydrated by reducing the amount of water your body keeps. At the same time, RAS inhibitors can make the kidneys work harder. Adding ibuprofen to this mix creates what researchers call a “triple whammy,” which puts a lot of pressure on the kidneys.
Ibuprofen belongs to a group of drugs called NSAIDs, which reduce pain and swelling. But it can also lower blood flow to the kidneys, making the situation worse when used with diuretics and RAS inhibitors.
This doesn’t mean everyone who uses these medicines will get kidney problems. But the study shows there is a real risk for some people. Many people who take blood pressure medication may not know that ibuprofen can be risky.
If you need a painkiller and you take high blood pressure medicine, the researchers recommend using acetaminophen instead. Acetaminophen doesn’t stress the kidneys in the same way and is generally safer for people on blood pressure drugs.
Dr. Anita Layton and her team, who led the study, say this is a good example of how mixing medications can lead to unexpected problems. Just because a medicine is common and easy to buy doesn’t mean it’s always safe.
It’s very important to talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking any new medicine—even one you can buy without a prescription. This is especially true if you’re managing a long-term condition like high blood pressure.
This research shows that understanding how drugs interact can help avoid serious problems. Patients and healthcare providers should work together to make sure treatments are safe and effective.
Even simple painkillers like ibuprofen should be used with care, especially when other medications are involved. Thinking ahead and asking questions can help protect your health.
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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