But taken long-term, especially without medical supervision, PPIs have been linked to kidney injury. What begins as subtle strain on the kidneys can progress into chronic kidney disease if left unchecked.
Possible alternative: H2 antagonists like famotidine are often gentler on the kidneys, though they’re not suitable for everyone. Always discuss with your doctor before switching.
2. Ibuprofen and Other Pain Reliever
But ibuprofen belongs to a group called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which reduce blood flow to the kidneys. When taken for too long or in high doses, especially by older adults, this reduced blood flow can trigger acute kidney injury.
Safety tip: Experts recommend not taking ibuprofen for more than 10 consecutive days without medical approval.
3. Aspirin, Naproxen, and Diclofenac
Like ibuprofen, these pain relievers fall into the NSAID category. Overuse doesn’t just strain the kidneys — it can also raise blood pressure, cause fluid retention, and spark chronic kidney disease.
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