Kidney Disease From Pain Killers

You’ve probably been told that over the counter pain killers, esp. NSAIDS, like ibuprofen, and Tylenol, are extremely safe.  Well, not exactly.  More and more evidence has been accumulating over the last few years about how dangerous these drugs are.  NSAIDs (non-steirodal anti-inflammatory drugs) increase the risk of high blood pressure and chronic heart failure, irritation and ulceration of the stomach, and can cause liver and kidney problems.   We’ve also known that aceteminophen (Tylenol) can put the liver under stress.  Now we are learning that aceteminophen can also lead to kidney problems.  

A form of kidney disease known as analgesic nephropathy results from the regular use of acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and other anti-inflammatory medications, according to the  National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases .   Analgesic nephropathy is a chronic disease that results from taking pain relievers over long periods of time and results in gradual damage to the kidneys that eventually leads to kidney failure and the need for dialysis or kidney transplant.   It is estimated that 4 out of every 100,000 people in the US will develop analgesic nephropathy.  Acetaminophen is also a leading cause of liver failure in the US.

I understand that there are times when NSAIDs and pain killers are necessary, but you should try alternatives whenever possible, including chiropractic care, ice, electrical muscle stimulation, cold laser, natural anti-inflammatory supplements  (such as turmeric, ginger, Bosellia serrata, capsicum from hot peppers, proteolytic enzymes, vitamin D, fish oil, and anti-inflammatory medical food), and Glucosamine sulfate (with or without chondroitin sulfate and/or MSM)for joint, ligament, and tendon healing.   Speak to Dr. Weitz or Amber about additional information on these supplements.