Can Taking Paracetamol Be Bad For You?

Paracetamol, also known as acetaminophen, is a commonly used medication for relieving mild to moderate pain such as headaches, muscle aches, or toothaches and reducing fever. It works by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins in the brain, which helps alleviate pain and lower body temperature. Although it is generally safe when taken as directed, excessive or prolonged use of paracetamol can lead to serious health problems. Misuse, overdose, or combining it with other substances like alcohol can significantly increase its risks. Keep reading as we share a list of ways in which paracetamol can be harmful for your health.

Here's how paracetamol can be bad for health

Overdosing on paracetamol can overwhelm the liver's ability to process the drug, leading to toxic buildup and potentially fatal liver failure. Even slight overdoses taken repeatedly can cause cumulative damage over time.

Regular or high-dose use of paracetamol has been linked to nephrotoxicity, which may impair kidney function. This risk is particularly high for individuals with pre-existing kidney conditions or those taking other nephrotoxic medications.

Although less irritating than NSAIDs, high doses of paracetamol can still cause stomach upset, nausea, or in rare cases, gastrointestinal bleeding, especially when taken on an empty stomach or with other medications.

The therapeutic dose of paracetamol is close to its toxic dose, increasing the risk of accidental overdose. Symptoms of overdose, such as vomiting, confusion, or abdominal pain, may not appear immediately but require urgent medical intervention.

Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to paracetamol, including rashes, hives, or more severe reactions like difficulty breathing and anaphylaxis, which requires immediate treatment.

Studies suggest that frequent use of paracetamol may be associated with a higher risk of developing asthma or worsening existing respiratory conditions by depleting lung antioxidants like glutathione.

Paracetamol can interact negatively with other medications, such as anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin), increasing the risk of bleeding, or with alcohol, exacerbating liver damage.

Using paracetamol to manage pain or fever may mask symptoms of underlying serious conditions, delaying diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Frequent use of paracetamol for headaches can lead to medication overuse headaches (rebound headaches), where the original problem worsens due to dependency on the drug.

Some research suggests paracetamol may dull emotional reactions, reducing sensitivity to both positive and negative feelings. This may subtly affect mood and emotional well-being when used frequently.

Incorrect dosing of paracetamol in children can quickly lead to toxicity because their smaller bodies have a lower threshold for processing the drug. Parents must use the correct paediatric formulations and dosages.

While paracetamol is generally considered safe during pregnancy, prolonged or excessive use has been associated with potential risks, including developmental issues in the foetus, though more research is needed to confirm this.

Paracetamol is a valuable medication when used correctly, but misuse can have significant health implications. Always follow recommended dosages, avoid alcohol while taking it, and consult a healthcare provider for prolonged use or if you are on other medications.

Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.