Can analgesics hurt kidneys?
Generally, when used according to directions, over-the-counter analgesics are safe. However, heavy or long-term use of these medicines, especially those that contain a mixture of painkilling ingredients—such as aspirin, acetaminophen and caffeine—in one pill, have been linked to chronic kidney disease in European studies. The warning labels on over-the-counter analgesics tell you not to use these medicines more than 10 days for pain and more than three days for fever. If you have pain and/or fever for a longer time, you should see your doctor. The doctor can check for possible medical problems and advise you about what medications you should take.
