Silent strain: Rising painkiller misuse puts kidneys at risk

In an exclusive interview with The Sunday Guardian, Dr. Suresh Sankar, Senior Vice President, Global Clinical Affairs at Nephro Plus, sheds light on a growing but often overlooked health crisis — the misuse of over-the-counter painkillers and prescription opioids in India.

- Dr. Suresh Sankar

He warns that chronic self-medication, especially among older adults, is leading to a surge in kidney-related complications, many of which go unnoticed until it's too late.

With easy access to these drugs and limited awareness about their long-term effects, experts are urging stronger regulations and timely medical oversight to prevent irreversible kidney damage.

Q. Are you seeing a rise in patients misusing over-the-counter painkillers or prescription opioids? What's driving this trend?

A. Yes, we are seeing a rise in this trend in our clinical practice.

One of the major reasons for this trend is easy access to medications from regular pharmacies and off late online channels too.

Secondly, many individuals self-medicate for chronic pain, headaches, or joint issues without consulting a doctor, often unaware of how long these drugs can be used safely.

The concern is especially significant in the elderly population.