Can I Take Ibuprofen After Donating a Kidney?

If you’ve donated a kidney or are thinking about doing so, you may have questions about how donation will affect your daily life—including what medications are safe to take afterward.

One common question is whether ibuprofen or other over-the-counter pain medications are safe to take after donating a kidney. It’s generally recommended that kidney donors avoid ibuprofen and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as naproxen (Aleve), unless approved by your doctor.

Ibuprofen and other NSAIDs can affect kidney function, even in people with two healthy kidneys. These medications work by reducing inflammation, but they also reduce blood flow to the kidneys. Over time or in high doses, this can stress the kidney and potentially lead to damage—especially when you only have one kidney.

While a single dose of ibuprofen now and then might not be harmful for everyone, regular or high-dose use is more concerning. Some transplant centers recommend avoiding NSAIDs altogether, while others allow occasional use under medical supervision.

Safer Alternatives

If you’re experiencing pain or inflammation, consider safer alternatives like:

• Acetaminophen (Tylenol): Generally considered safer for kidney donors when used at recommended doses.
• Non-drug options: Ice, heat, rest, or physical therapy, depending on the cause of pain.

If you’ve donated a kidney, your transplant team or primary care doctor can give you personalized guidance about medications, including whether ibuprofen is safe for you. Always talk to your healthcare provider before taking any new medication, even over-the-counter drugs.