A leading pharmacist has issued a stark health warning to the millions of people across the UK who regularly take common painkillers like paracetamol and ibuprofen. While these medications are staples in household medicine cabinets for treating everyday aches, their overuse can lead to significant and sometimes severe health complications.
The Hidden Dangers of Over-the-Counter Reliance
Pharmacist Anum, who shares advice online, emphasised that while short-term use of such drugs is generally safe, a pattern of daily reliance to manage pain and function normally is a major red flag. She stressed that this habitual use without medical investigation is problematic. "When you're having to rely on these medications day-to-day to do your normal day-to-day activities, that's an issue if you haven't been investigated," she stated.
The core message is clear: persistent pain requiring daily medication is a symptom that needs a diagnosis, not just suppression. Anum advises anyone in this situation to consult their GP to uncover the root cause of their discomfort, allowing for proper treatment instead of masking the problem.
Specific Risks of Paracetamol and Ibuprofen Overuse
Exceeding the recommended dose of paracetamol is particularly dangerous. It can overwhelm the body's processing ability, leading to severe and sometimes irreversible liver and kidney damage. Alarmingly, symptoms of such organ damage may not be immediately obvious, making it crucial to seek help if you suspect you've taken too much.
Similarly, habitual overuse of ibuprofen carries its own set of risks. Potential consequences include stomach ulcers and indigestion, kidney impairment, and increased risk of cardiovascular issues. The pharmacist's warning extends to other common painkillers like co-codamol, where users can build a tolerance, making future pain management more difficult.
Key Advice for Safe Use
Pharmacist Anum's guidance centres on mindful consumption and professional consultation:
- Use short-term: These medications are fine for occasional headaches or pains.
- Avoid daily reliance: Needing them daily to function is a sign to see a doctor.
- Stick to the dose: Never exceed the recommended dosage on the packet.
- Seek investigation: Persistent pain requires a GP's diagnosis to treat the cause, not just the symptom.
This warning, issued in early January 2026, follows another recent alert about painkiller safety, highlighting ongoing concerns within the medical community. If you have any concerns about your use of pain medication or experience worrying symptoms, speaking to a GP or pharmacist is always the recommended course of action.
