Paracetamol Use in Seniors Linked to Rising Kidney Issues, Experts Warn
Paris, France – Long-term, frequent use of paracetamol, a common painkiller for seniors, is increasingly being linked to kidney damage, prompting calls for greater awareness and regular monitoring among older adults. While a single dose poses minimal risk, consistent, daily intake over months – often self-medicated – can silently compromise kidney function, a problem exacerbated by a lack of routine medical check-ups.
Nearly 10% of French individuals over 65 already have chronic kidney failure, often undiagnosed, according to a 2023 joint report from Inserm and Health Insurance. This figure jumps to almost 25% for those over 75. Teh concern stems not from the drug itself, but from the widespread, often unmonitored, reliance on paracetamol for chronic pain management in an aging population. A simple blood test measuring creatinine and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) can detect early signs of kidney dysfunction,yet this monitoring isn’t consistently integrated into senior care.
The issue highlights a broader societal trend of medicalizing minor discomforts and a potential over-reliance on pharmaceutical solutions. Experts are urging a shift towards exploring non-pharmacological pain management strategies, such as physiotherapy, relaxation techniques, heat therapy, and gentle exercise.
“What is problematic is the almost daily intake for months, often without biological monitoring,” explains a recent article in Ma Santé. “However, a simple blood test allows you to check kidney function…This monitoring shoudl be part of the regular assessments of seniors using long-term painkillers.”
Beyond medication, learning to accept a certain pain threshold and allowing the body to express discomfort without immediate suppression may also play a role in preserving kidney health. The call for increased vigilance comes as healthcare professionals grapple with the rising prevalence of chronic kidney disease in the elderly and the need for preventative measures.