Repeated Painkiller Use Can Harm Kidneys, CDSCO Warns Public Against Self-Medication
Mumbai, September 29, 2026: Taking a painkiller for recurring backache or headache, or starting an antibiotic left over from an earlier illness, may seem harmless—but repeated or prolonged use without medical advice can put people at risk of kidney complications and other health problems. The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) has now warned the public against such indiscriminate…
Mumbai, September 29, 2026: The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) has issued a warning to the public against self-medicating with painkillers and antibiotics, emphasizing the potential harm that repeated use can cause. In a recent circular, Drugs Controller General of India Dr Rajeev Singh Raghuvanshi cautioned that most non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and antibiotics fall under Schedule H and H1, meaning they cannot be sold without a prescription from a Registered Medical Practitioner.
The regulator strongly advises people not to take painkillers or antibiotics on their own, especially for prolonged periods, and to refrain from using leftover medications or sharing them with others. Antibiotics should not be taken for viral infections, and people with pre-existing kidney conditions must inform their doctor before using NSAIDs.
The CDSCO also directs pharmacists and hospitals to strictly adhere to prescription rules for Schedule H and H1 medicines, promoting judicious use and avoiding unnecessary combinations, incorrect doses, and extended courses. This advisory underscores the importance of consulting a doctor before starting or continuing prescription painkillers and antibiotics to prevent drug-related complications and antibiotic resistance.
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