Recent U.S. research reveals that taking painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen just twice a week can increase the risk of hearing damage.
Though the overall risk of hearing impairment remains low at about 1%, experts advise caution with excessive use. This large-scale study followed 27,000 American men and found that regular painkiller consumption contributes to hearing loss later in life.
Men using painkillers twice weekly faced hearing problems up to a third more often than non-users. Researchers stress this doesn't mean avoiding painkillers entirely—moderation is key for safe, effective relief.