Long Term Paracetamol Risks
Long-term use of paracetamol may cause heart, kidney, or digestive problems: study
A recent study from the University of Nottingham indicates that long-term consumption of paracetamol among older adults aged 65 and above increases the risk of gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and renal complications.
The research was published in Arthritis Care and Research, warning about the repeated prescription of paracetamol for chronic conditions, such as osteoarthritis, in older patients.
Led by Professor Weiya Zhang from the NIHR Biomedical Research Centre at the University’s School of Medicine, the study analyzed data from the Clinical Practice Research Datalink-Gold. It included individuals aging 65 and older, with an average age of 75, registered with UK general practices between 1998 and 2018.
Paracetamol is the other name for acetaminophen. This drug is widely used worldwide to alleviate pain and reduce fever. Though it is known to be safe when taken in the short term, various studies have indicated a threat when it is used in the long term. The latest study shows how prolonged paracetamol intake affects the heart, kidneys, and digestive system.
The Study and Its Findings
To study the impact of chronic use of paracetamol, researchers studied long-term follow-up observational studies and conducted comprehensive medical record reviews. Main Findings:
Cardiovascular Risks
Chronic paracetamol use is associated with hypertension and other cardiovascular events. The results of the study indicate that the drug’s regular intake at higher doses may lead to some blood pressure dysregulation, ultimately resulting in cardiovascular complications over time.
Kidney Damage:
Prolonged paracetamol use may have nephrotoxicity and may cause a decrease in renal filtration ability. The studies conducted revealed that chronic exposure to paracetamol has a relationship with increasing the risk of developing chronic kidney disease.
Effects on the Digestive System:
Long-term paracetamol use has also been associated with gastrointestinal issues, such as ulcers and bleeding. While these risks are less frequent than those associated with NSAIDs, they are still a concern for frequent users.
Factors Affecting Risks
The study pointed out that the risks of paracetamol are affected by several factors, including:
Dosage: The higher the dose taken consistently over long periods, the higher the risk of adverse effects.
Pre-existing Conditions: Individuals with existing kidney or liver issues are at greater risk.
Concurrent Medication Use: Combining paracetamol with other medications, especially those metabolized by the liver, can amplify risks.
Expert Recommendations
Medical professionals continue to affirm that paracetamol is safe when used as directed for short-term relief. However, they advise caution with prolonged use. Here are some key recommendations:
Adhere strictly to the recommended dose and duration indicated on the label or as prescribed by a healthcare provider.
Watch for signs of potential side effects, such as unexplained fatigue, swelling, or changes in urination.
Consult a doctor for persistent pain or fever instead of relying on long-term medication use.
Conclusion
Paracetamol remains a valuable and widely used drug for the management of pain and fever. However, the results of this study emphasize that such use must be both careful and well-informed. Knowledge of the risk associated with long-term use is important to protect health in general.
As research continues to advance and reveal the long-term side effects of commonly used medications, individuals are encouraged to be alert and to open communication about their health concerns with health care providers. In turn, this ensures that care is both safe and effective.