ACETAMINOPHEN: RISKS FOR OVERUSE

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ACETAMINOPHEN: RISKS FOR OVERUSE







Recent research from Britain highlights the risks of overusing paracetamol, known as acetaminophen or Tylenol in the United States, particularly among those over 65.

The study, published in Arthritis Care & Research, found that repeated doses of acetaminophen significantly increased the likelihood of complications involving the digestive system, heart, and kidneys in older adults who often take the drug for conditions like osteoarthritis, as

Acetaminophen is a common pain and fever reliever, found both in cold and flu remedies and as a standalone medication. It works by interfering with signals in the brain that register pain and by affecting chemicals that control body temperature. It also appears to reduce the body’s production of prostaglandins, substances involved in the body's response to illness or injury.

Dr. Weiya Zhang, of the NIHR Biomedical Research Centre at the University of Nottingham, led the research. Zhang noted that acetaminophen has long been considered a safe, first-choice treatment for osteoarthritis, especially in older patients who face higher risks with other pain medications.

To assess the drug’s effects, researchers examined health records of more than 180,400 people aged 65 and older who were prescribed acetaminophen repeatedly (at least twice within six months). They compared these individuals to nearly 402,500 older adults who had not received repeated prescriptions.

The results showed that frequent acetaminophen use was linked to higher risks of gastrointestinal bleeding (36% increase), peptic ulcers (20% increase), heart failure (9% increase), high blood pressure (7% increase), and chronic kidney disease (19% increase).

Zhang emphasized the need for further research but urged caution, stating that the modest pain relief provided by acetaminophen may not outweigh these potential risks for older adults with long-term conditions.

 

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