The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) has issued a fresh warning against the indiscriminate, repeated or prolonged use of painkillers and antibiotics, highlighting the risk of avoidable kidney complications and chronic kidney disease.
In a circular dated September 21, the drug regulator said non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), commonly used as painkillers, and antibiotics should be used only when clinically indicated, at the appropriate dose and for the appropriate duration under medical supervision.
The warning is particularly relevant to people who repeatedly take painkillers for common aches, fever or other symptoms without medical advice. CDSCO has also advised people with existing kidney disease or other risk factors for renal impairment to inform their healthcare professional before using NSAIDs.
The regulator reiterated that many NSAIDs fall under Schedule H of the Drugs Rules, 1945, while many antibiotics are classified under Schedule H1. These medicines are subject to prescription requirements and carry specified warnings and conditions of sale.
CDSCO has also cautioned against using antibiotics for self-medication or for conditions where they are not clinically indicated, including most uncomplicated viral infections. Unnecessary antibiotic use can contribute to antimicrobial resistance, making some bacterial infections harder to treat.
Doctors have been advised to consider factors such as a patient's age, existing illnesses, other medicines and kidney-related risk factors when prescribing these drugs. For NSAIDs, the circular recommends using the lowest effective dose for the shortest appropriate duration when clinically suitable.
The regulator has asked people to seek medical advice when pain, fever or other symptoms persist or return instead of repeatedly self-medicating with painkillers or antibiotics.
