A new international study has raised alarm over the combined use of common painkillers and antibiotics. According to researchers at the University of South Australia, pairing widely used medicines like ibuprofen and paracetamol with antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin can significantly boost the chances of bacteria developing antibiotic resistance. The findings, published in the journal npj Antimicrobials and Resistance, highlight an overlooked risk factor in the global fight against superbugs.
How Does This Happen?
The study explained that painkillers don’t just relieve symptoms—they also interfere with bacterial behaviour. Ibuprofen and paracetamol were found to trigger mutations in regulatory genes which activated a powerful bacterial defence mechanism that pumps antibiotics out of the cell before they can work.
Even more concerning, when ibuprofen and paracetamol were taken together, their effects were additive, creating an even stronger environment for resistance to develop.
Why It Matters
Antibiotic resistance, often called the “silent pandemic”, is one of the biggest public health threats of our time. According to a 2024 Lancet report, antibiotic-resistant infections could be responsible for up to 39 million deaths globally by 2050 if left unchecked.
Traditionally, the focus has been on misuse or overuse of antibiotics—like taking them unnecessarily for viral infections or stopping treatment midway. However, this new research shows that non-antibiotic drugs, often considered safe, can also play a hidden role in accelerating resistance.
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Expert Insights
Lead researcher Dr. Rietie Venter, Associate Professor of Clinical and Health Sciences at UniSA, emphasized: “It’s not just about antibiotics anymore. Non-antibiotic medicines we take every day can also influence bacterial evolution. We need to rethink antimicrobial stewardship to include these common drugs.”
What Can Patients Do?
For the general public, the findings don’t mean that painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen are unsafe. These drugs remain effective and safe when used appropriately. However, the study suggests a few cautionary steps:
- Avoid self-medication: Never combine painkillers with antibiotics without medical advice.
- Consult your doctor: Especially if you’re on multiple medications for chronic conditions.
- Follow prescriptions carefully: Take antibiotics for the full course and at the right dose.
- Support research and awareness: Encourage responsible drug use to slow down resistance.
