Painkillers increase antibiotic resistance — study

New data from a study conducted by the University of South Australia show that widely used painkillers — ibuprofen and paracetamol — may contribute to increased bacterial resistance to antibiotics. Analysis revealed that both drugs not only promote the development of resistance in bacteria when used individually, but further amplify this effect when taken together.

In the experiment, researchers studied the interaction of ibuprofen and paracetamol with one of the most common antibiotics — ciprofloxacin — and with the intestinal bacterium Escherichia coli, which often causes urinary and gastrointestinal infections. The results showed that painkillers accelerate genetic changes in bacteria, allowing them to develop resistance more quickly and become less responsive to conventional treatment.

Lead researcher Dr. Riiti Venter particularly noted that these findings are especially concerning for vulnerable populations, such as elderly people living in nursing homes who often take multiple medications simultaneously.

Additional confirmation of the observed effect is provided by other reviews. According to Nefes.com.tr, laboratory studies have shown that both alone and in combination with antibiotics, ibuprofen and paracetamol promote the formation of resistant bacterial strains, which is particularly dangerous in infections among the elderly. The newspaper Sonhaber.eu emphasizes that painkillers can activate bacterial defense mechanisms, reducing the effectiveness of antibiotics and accelerating mutations.

The problem of antibiotic resistance is a global health challenge. The World Health Organization (WHO) has repeatedly highlighted the seriousness of this threat. As early as 2019, more than 1.27 million people worldwide died from infections caused by resistant bacteria. In the current context, with additional contributing factors identified, the scale of the threat may increase even faster.

Experts warn that to reduce the risk of developing resistance it is important to:

— consult a doctor before taking antibiotics and painkillers simultaneously;

— observe time intervals between taking different drug groups;

— avoid unnecessary use of painkillers, especially in elderly and chronically ill patients.

This study emphasizes that the contribution to antibiotic resistance may come not only from improper use of antibiotics but also from other widely used medications. This calls for a reassessment of approaches to drug therapy and the creation of a stricter system for monitoring medication intake.