New Delhi: Paracetamol is one of the most commonly used over-the-counter drugs used to treat mild to moderate pain and fever. But as common as this drug is, doctors are worried about whether or not it is safe enough for frequent use. However, according to recent research, it has been noted that the OTC tablet might have side effects in the elderly if taken for too long. To come to this conclusion, the research evaluated medical records of 180000 people aged 65 and above who received at least two prescriptions over the past six months. These were then compared the same with the health of 402000 people who were not on any medication.
Researchers found that prolonged use of paracetamol contributed to a 35% higher risk of suffering from gastrointestinal bleeding and a 20% higher risk of suffering from peptic ulcers. Frequent users were also 19% more prone to chronic kidney disease, 7% higher risk of hypertension, and 9% higher risk of suffering from heart failure. Researchers from the NIHR Biomedical Research Centre at the University of Nottingham noted that due to the perceived safety, this tablet has been recommended as first in line for treatment of osteoarthritis in the elderly who are more prone to the complications associated with the drug.
Experts said that further research is needed in the area to confirm the findings. However, it still offers an overview of the possible repercussions of mindless use of medication. Given the minimal pain-relief effects, the use of paracetamol is famed as the first OTC choice to deal with not-so-serious health problems. It is also often prescribed to osteoarthritis patients for pain relief. The study also noted that other factors may also have a role to play here. The study’s findings were published in the Arthritis Care and Research journal.
Side effects of mindlessly eating painkillers
Eating painkillers in excess can have the following side effects:
Difficulty breathing
Hives
Rashes
Mouth swelling
Ulcers
Kidney problems
Liver problems
Paracetamol is one of the most commonly used over-the-counter drugs used to treat mild to moderate pain and fever. But as common as this drug is, doctors are worried about whether or not it is safe enough for frequent use. Medicine Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
