Study Insights: Know the Risks of Prolonged Paracetamol Use
Paracetamol, a widely used over-the-counter medicine for fever and pain relief, is often considered safe and effective. However, a recent study from the University of Nottingham, UK, has raised concerns about its potential side effects in older adults. The findings suggest that prolonged use of paracetamol could increase the risk of complications affecting the digestive tract, heart, and kidneys in individuals aged 65 and above.
Common Use of Paracetamol for Pain and Fever
Paracetamol is frequently prescribed to manage mild-to-moderate fever and is the first-line treatment for osteoarthritis. This chronic condition causes joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, and healthcare professionals often recommend paracetamol due to its affordability, accessibility, and perceived safety.
However, its effectiveness as a pain reliever, particularly for osteoarthritis, has been questioned in recent studies, prompting a closer look at its long-term use and side effects.
Findings: Increased Risk of Bleeding and Other Complications
The latest research examined the medical records of over 1.8 lakh individuals repeatedly prescribed paracetamol, defined as more than two prescriptions within six months. These records were compared to those of 4 lakh individuals of the same age who had not been prescribed the drug repeatedly.
The study identified notable risks associated with prolonged paracetamol use:
- Gastrointestinal complications:
- 24% higher risk of peptic ulcer bleeding (bleeding in the digestive tract caused by ulcers).
- 36% higher risk of lower gastrointestinal bleeding.
- Kidney and heart issues:
- 19% higher risk of chronic kidney disease.
- 9% higher risk of heart failure.
- 7% higher risk of high blood pressure.
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Why This Matters for Older Adults
Lead researcher Dr Weiya Zhang explained that the perceived safety of paracetamol has made it a go-to medication for managing chronic conditions like osteoarthritis. However, the study underscores the importance of re-evaluating its use, especially in older adults who are more susceptible to drug-related complications.
“Given its minimal pain-relief effect, the use of paracetamol as a first-line painkiller for long-term conditions such as osteoarthritis needs careful reconsideration,” Dr. Zhang emphasised.
Past Studies Challenge Paracetamol's Effectiveness
This research builds on earlier findings. For instance, a 2016 study published in The Lancet analyzed data from 76 clinical trials involving over 58,000 patients. It concluded that paracetamol provided insufficient pain relief or improvement in physical function for individuals with knee and hip osteoarthritis.
Need for Further Research
The Nottingham study highlights significant risks linked to paracetamol use in older adults, but the authors call for additional research to confirm their findings. For now, the study raises an important question: Should paracetamol remain the first choice for managing chronic pain in older individuals, given its potential risks and limited benefits?
While paracetamol remains accessible and widely used, healthcare professionals may need to explore alternative treatments and weigh the risks and benefits more carefully for their patients.
Key Takeaway
Prolonged use of paracetamol, especially among older adults, should be approached with caution. Patients and healthcare providers should discuss the risks and explore safer, more effective pain management options when considering long-term use.
Source: Inputs from various media SourcesÂ
I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.
