A new study by researchers at the University of Nottingham found that long-term use of acetaminophen may be associated with an increased risk of ulcers, heart failure, high blood pressure, and chronic kidney disease. The study analyzed data from over 180,000 older adults who had taken repeated doses of acetaminophen, compared to more than 400,000 adults who did not.
While the study suggests that paracetamol may not be as safe as previously thought, experts caution that the medication is still widely used and effective for pain relief. Professor Alan Silman from the University of Oxford noted that the results of the study show small increases in rare events, but these are likely due to “methodological issues” with the study design.
The researchers analyzed health records to find a correlation between acetaminophen prescription and certain health effects, but this does not mean the medication caused those increased risks. Silman emphasized the importance of using painkillers like acetaminophen responsibly, taking the smallest dose for the shortest time possible.
Tylenol, the brand name for acetaminophen, has a long history of safe use, with over 60 years of clinical trials supporting its efficacy and safety. The company behind Tylenol stands by its product’s safety profile, citing numerous studies that demonstrate its effectiveness in relieving minor aches and pains.
While the study highlights some concerns about acetaminophen use, it is essential to consider the medication’s benefits and risks on a case-by-case basis. Patients should consult with their healthcare provider before taking any painkiller, including acetaminophen, and follow the recommended dosage instructions carefully.
Source: https://www.newsweek.com/common-painkiller-acetaminophen-tylenol-paracetamol-study-2003691