People should be wary of relying on anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen for pain relief as they can affect kidney function, experts warn.

Those with a higher risk of kidney disease, such as diabetics or people with high blood pressure, should be particularly careful, according to Kidney Care UK and the National Pharmacy Association.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen, naproxen and diclofenac can increase blood pressure and damage vessels inside the kidneys.

• ITV This Morning deals expert reveals 'secret' to finding hidden bargains at B&M


• HMS Dragon is UK's billion pound 'maritime killer fortress'

Olivier Picard, chair of the NPA, said: "Medicines have the power to harm 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."

About 7.2 million people in the UK are living with chronic kidney disease and another million are likely to have undiagnosed problems as there are usually no early symptoms.

Kidney Care UK also estimates that about one million are undiagnosed. Those at an increased risk also include people with a family history of the disease, and those from Black and south Asian communities.

Fiona Loud of Kidney Care UK, said: “This disease can happen to anyone at any time, and can have a devastating impact on your life, relationships and finan­­ces.”

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."