Painkillers for every ache? CDSCO warns of kidney risks, antibiotic misuse

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.