Painkillers for every ache? CDSCO warns of kidney risks, antibiotic misuse
India's drug regulator, the CDSCO, has issued an advisory warning against the misuse of painkillers and antibiotics due to risks of kidney damage. Experts emphasize that these medications should only be taken under medical supervision to avoid long-term health complications.
Why it matters
Public health awareness regarding self-medication is critical in India, where chronic kidney disease prevalence is estimated at over 13%.
NEW DELHI: Taking painkillers repeatedly for everyday aches or antibiotics without proper medical advice could put people at risk of kidney complications and other adverse effects, prompting the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) to issue a fresh advisory on their rational use.The drug regulator has asked people not to take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), commonly used as painkillers, repeatedly or for prolonged periods without medical advice. It has also cautioned against self-medication with antibiotics and advised people with existing kidney disease or other risk factors for renal impairment to inform their doctor before taking NSAIDs.Prof Sandeep Mahajan, nephrologist at AIIMS, said that unregulated and prolonged use of painkillers can accelerate the decline in kidney function, particularly in people with chronic kidney disease. “All prescription medicines should be taken under the supervision of a qualified physician, with the prescribed dose and duration strictly followed.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in