Paracetamol is sold over-the-counter in almost all pharmacies and supermarkets. It’s hailed for easing various aches, pains and flu-like symptoms, boasting sales of 200 million unprescribed packets annually in the UK alone.
However, a study from the University of Nottingham has raised red flags about its risks, claiming it ‘may not be as safe as perceived’. The research, published last month, warned that repeated doses in older people can give rise to a worsened risk of heart, gastrointestinal and kidney complications.
Lead author, Professor Weiya Zhang, explained: “Due to its perceived safety, paracetamol has long been recommended as the first line drug treatment for osteoarthritis by many treatment guidelines, especially in older people who are at higher risk of drug-related complications.”
As part of their project, the team analysed health records from 180,483 people aged 65 and above who were prescribed paracetamol, comparing them to 402,478 non-paracetamol users of similar age.
The resulting evidence was stark, revealing that ‘prolonged paracetamol use’ could significantly spike the danger of ‘serious complications’ such as heart failure, hypertension, peptic ulcers, and chronic kidney disease. Ultimately, the researchers urged a ‘careful reconsideration’ of using paracetamol as a go-to for prescribed pain management in the long term.
Professor Zhang reiterated: “Whilst further research is now needed to confirm our findings, given its minimal pain-relief effect, the use of paracetamol as a first line pain killer for long-term conditions such as osteoarthritis in older people needs to be carefully considered.”
The NHS guidelines state that adults can take two 500mg tablets, four times in 24 hours, with a minimum interval of four hours between doses. It is recommended not to take more than eight tablets within this timeframe.
However, certain individuals may need to use caution or avoid paracetamol altogether. This includes those with liver or kidney problems, those who consume more than 14 units of alcohol per week, and people with an allergy to paracetamol or similar medications.
Those who weigh less than eight stone should also consult a doctor before taking paracetamol as a lower dose may be required. For a comprehensive list of potential side effects, it is advised to refer to the leaflet inside the medicine packet.
The health body adds: “If you’re taking paracetamol for a short-lived pain like a headache, you may only need to take it for a day or two. You may need to take paracetamol for longer if you have a long-term health problem that causes pain.
“It’s safe to take paracetamol regularly for many years, as long as you do not take more than the recommended dose.”
