Have researchers finally found a way to combat superbugs?

According to new research, common painkillers could help in the fight against superbugs.

The research which was published in the Cell Press journal Chemistry and Biology says that non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may be able to kill bacteria found in superbugs.

NSAIDs including ibuprofen can be found in basic painkillers that many of us have in our cupboards at home.

According to Dr Aaron Oakley from the University of Wollongong in Australia, who headed the study: “The fact that the bacteria-killing effect of the anti-inflammatory drugs is different from conventional drugs means that the NSAIDS could be developed into new kinds of antibiotics that are effective against so-called superbugs.

Experts say that superbugs are currently resistant to antibiotics and the new findings could be of significance in the fight against the bacteria.

Dr Oakley led the study on bromofenac, carprofen and vedaprofen and added: “This is important because the superbugs have become resistant to many – and in some cases most – of the available antibiotics.”