How OTC Pain Medications May Fuel Antibiotic Resistance

Pain relief medications like acetaminophen and ibuprofen are staples in everyday care—but emerging research suggests they may play a role in antibiotic resistance. This episode reviews recent findings, explores how these common drugs may influence bacterial response to antibiotics, and highlights pharmacist‑specific considerations. You will walk away with practical insights to support informed medication use and strengthen antibiotic stewardship.HOSTRachel Maynard, PharmDGameChangers Podcast Host and Clinical Editor, CEimpactLead Editor, PyrlsHunter O. Rondeau, PharmD, BCIDP, AAHIVPAntimicrobial Stewardship Coordinator, SSM HealthAdjunct Clinical Assistant Professor, University of Kansas School of PharmacyRachel Maynard has no relevant financial relationships with ineligible companies to disclose. Hunter Rondeau is a consultant for Pyrls, a speaker for ASHP, and was a speaker for ACCP (ended October 2025) and Vituity (ended May 2025). All relevant financial relationships have been mitigated. GET CE FOR LISTENING!Stay Compliant. Grow Clinically. Practice with Confidence. Pharmacist CE Subscription: All your CE in one convenient subscription. All episodes, CE, and Practice Resources for the GameChangers Clinical Update is included with your Pharmacist CE Subscription. But wait…there’s even more!What the Subscription Includes:The Pharmacist CE Subscription includes: ·       Compliance and licensure CE ·       GameChangers Clinical Updates ·       Practical continuing education across patient care topics *The subscription does not include microcredentials or certificates, which are available separately for pharmacists seeking specialized service training. Purchase Now!PRACTICE RESOURCEReceive the exclusive Practice Resource to use as a reference guide for this episode by purchasing the Pharmacist CE Subscription. CPE REDEMPTIONThis course is accredited for continuing pharmacy education! Click the link below that applies to you to take the exam and evaluation to claim credit:If you are already enrolled in this course, click here to redeem your credit. To purchase the Pharmacist CE Subscription and claim your CPE credit, click here or to purchase this course individually, click here. CPE INFORMATIONLearning ObjectivesUpon successful completion of this knowledge-based activity, participants should be able to:1. Describe emerging evidence on how common OTC pain medications may influence antibiotic resistance.2. Identify pharmacist strategies to optimize analgesic and antibiotic use while supporting antimicrobial stewardship.0.05 CEU/0.5 HrUAN: 0107-0000-25-372-H01-PInitial release date: 12/8/2025Expiration date: 12/8/2026Additional CPE details can be found here.Follow CEimpact on Social Media:LinkedInInstagram