People who take medicine for high blood pressure should be careful when using ibuprofen, a common painkiller sold in pharmacies and supermarkets.
A recent study from the University of Waterloo found that mixing ibuprofen with two widely used blood pressure medications can lead to serious kidney problems.
The study focused on people who take both a diuretic and a renin-angiotensin system (RAS) inhibitor to manage their high blood pressure.
Diuretics, sometimes called “water pills,” help the body get rid of extra salt and water, which lowers blood pressure. RAS inhibitors help relax blood vessels and also lower blood pressure. These two types of medication are often prescribed together and are considered very effective.
Ibuprofen is a non-prescription pain reliever that many people use for headaches, joint pain, or muscle aches. It belongs to a group of drugs called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). These drugs are commonly used because they reduce pain and swelling.
However, this study warns that adding ibuprofen into the mix could be dangerous. The researchers used computer models to simulate how these three drugs—diuretics, RAS inhibitors, and ibuprofen—interact inside the body.
Their goal was to understand how this combination affects the kidneys, which play a major role in filtering waste and balancing fluids.
The results showed that this drug combination could lead to acute kidney injury. This is a serious condition where the kidneys suddenly stop working well. In some cases, the damage might not go away, leading to long-term kidney problems.
The issue lies in how each of these drugs affects the kidneys. Diuretics lower water levels in the body, which can lead to dehydration. RAS inhibitors reduce blood flow to the kidneys.
When ibuprofen is added, it can further reduce the kidneys’ ability to function by interfering with important signals that help blood flow in the kidneys. This creates what researchers call a “triple whammy” effect, putting a lot of stress on the kidneys.
It’s important to note that not everyone who takes these drugs together will have kidney problems. The risk depends on factors like age, overall health, and existing kidney function. But the risk is high enough that doctors and patients should be aware of it.
For people taking blood pressure medications, especially a diuretic and a RAS inhibitor, it’s a good idea to avoid ibuprofen unless advised by a doctor. If pain relief is needed, acetaminophen (also known as paracetamol) may be a safer option because it does not carry the same risks for the kidneys when used properly.
The study was led by Professor Anita Layton and serves as a warning that even common over-the-counter medicines like ibuprofen can be harmful when combined with prescription drugs.
It highlights the need to always read medication labels and to talk with a healthcare provider before starting any new drug, even if it’s just for pain relief.
People managing high blood pressure should keep their doctors informed about all medications they are taking. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, and even herbal supplements. By doing so, they can help avoid dangerous drug interactions and keep their treatment plans both safe and effective.
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