Major drug warning issued to Brits as widespread capsule has ‘energy to hurt’

Kidney Care UK and the National Pharmacy Association are urging people at higher risk of kidney disease to be cautious about relying on anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen for pain relief

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Shoppers have been warned to exercise caution when depending on anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen for pain management due to their effect on kidney health.

Those at heightened risk of kidney complications, including diabetics or individuals with elevated blood pressure, ought to be especially vigilant, according to Kidney Care UK and the National Pharmacy Association (NPA).

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) including ibuprofen, naproxen and diclofenac can elevate blood pressure and harm blood vessels within the kidneys.

Olivier Picard, chair of the NPA, said: “Medicines have the power to as well as to heal.

“Although NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, are effective and safe medicines, patients should be aware of their impact – particularly if a patient is at increased risk of developing kidney disease – and consider alternative medication where appropriate.

“If a patient has concerns about their usage of NSAIDs, they should speak to their pharmacist who can advise them.

“Pharmacists are experts in medicines and are best placed to offer advice to people who may be concerned about any potential long-term effect of some medicines and can help patients effectively manage pain.”

Roughly 7.2 million people across the UK are battling some form of chronic kidney disease, which typically presents no symptoms during its initial phases.

Kidney Care UK also estimates that approximately one million people remain undiagnosed. Those at heightened risk of developing the condition include: diabetics; individuals with high blood pressure; people with a family history of kidney disease; and those from black and south Asian communities.

Fiona Loud, policy director at Kidney Care UK, said: “Kidney disease can happen to anyone at any time, and can have a devastating impact on your life, relationships, finances as well as your physical and mental health.”

Of the 294,999 people who completed the charity’s kidney health checker between October 2024 and March 2026, almost a quarter (24%) said they regularly used over-the-counter medication for pain relief.

Ms Loud added: “You can lose up to 90% of your kidney function without realising, so it’s important to be aware of the signs to look out for, to know if you might be at increased risk, and what to do if you are concerned.

“It only takes a few minutes to complete our online kidney health checker to see if you might be at increased risk. If you have any concerns, you can raise these with your GP or have a chat with your local pharmacist.”

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