Key Takeaways

Common painkillers might be contributing to antibiotic resistance

Ibuprofen and acetaminophen appeared to enhance resistance in E. coli to a broad-spectrum antibiotic

The effect was amplified when the two over-the-counter drugs were used together

FRIDAY, Aug. 29, 2025 (HealthDay News) — Common over-the counter painkillers might be quietly fueling antibiotic resistance, a new study warns.

Ibuprofen and acetaminophen appear to enhance mutations in E. coli , making the common bacteria more resistant to the broad-spectrum antibiotic ciprofloxacin , researchers reported in the journal npj Antimicrobials and Resistance .

What’s more, the two drugs amplify this effect when used together, researchers found.

“Antibiotic resistance isn’t just about antibiotics any

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