Meena Parackal

Will use of NSAID (Motrin, Ibuprofen and Advil) cause kidney disease?
Long-term NSAID use can lead to chronic kidney disease (CKD). Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as Motrin, ibuprofen, Advil naproxen sodium etc.. are commonly used medications for pain and fever which can lead to kidney disease, especially when used for a long time.

How are the kidneys affected?

• NSAID can cause inflammation in the kidney tubules by reducing blood flow to the kidneys

Who can get kidney disease from NSAID?

• People who are advanced in age and who have comorbidities (diabetes and hypertension)
• Those taking higher than prescribed dose
• Those taking NSAID for more than prescribed time period
• Those taking NSAIDS without consulting their physician

Side effects of NSAID

• Ulcers in the stomach, stomach pain, and nausea
• Liver cirrhosis
• Clot formation

How much NSAID is safe to take in 24 hours:

• This is based on your unique health condition
• However, normal adults and teenagers can take up to 1200 mg per every 24 hours, not more than prescribed amount of time
• For children, the use of NSAID is weight based – please consult pediatrician about dose and duration

References

• Lucas, G., Leitão, A., Alencar, R. L. Xavier, R., Daher, E. F., & Silva Júnior, G. (2019). Pathophysiological aspects of nephropathy caused by non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Jornal brasileiro de nefrologia : ‘órgão oficial de Sociedades Brasileira e Latino-Americana de Nefrologia, 41(1), 124–130.
• https://doi.org/10.1590/2175-8239-JBN-2018-0107