Paracetamol is a common medicine that helps with pain and fever. It’s often seen as a safer option than other medicines.
However, a recent study from the University of Edinburgh has raised concerns about the long-term use of paracetamol for people with high blood pressure. Let’s learn more about it.
What is Paracetamol and Why is it Used?
Paracetamol, also known as acetaminophen, is a type of medicine that helps reduce pain and fever.
It can be bought without a prescription and is often used for headaches, muscle aches, and when you’re feeling unwell. Some people with chronic pain, like arthritis, are also prescribed paracetamol.
Background
In the past, other types of painkillers called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) were found to increase blood pressure and the risk of heart disease.
Because of this, people with high blood pressure often chose paracetamol as a safer option. However, this new study brings up concerns about the possible risks of using paracetamol for a long time.
The Study
Scientists studied 110 patients who had a history of high blood pressure. They divided the participants into two groups.
One group received a standard dose of paracetamol four times a day, while the other group received a fake pill called a placebo. The researchers wanted to see how paracetamol affected their blood pressure.
Results
The study showed that the group taking paracetamol had a noticeable increase in their blood pressure compared to the group taking the placebo.
This increase in blood pressure was similar to what happens with NSAIDs. This means that using paracetamol for a long time might raise the risk of heart disease or strokes by around 20%.
What Does It Mean?
These findings suggest that it’s important to think about the pros and cons of using paracetamol for a long time, especially for people with high blood pressure or those at a higher risk of heart problems.
Healthcare professionals may need to review and think carefully about prescribing paracetamol for a long time, considering the possible effects on the heart.
Professor James Dear, one of the researchers, emphasizes the significance of these findings.
Paracetamol, which is one of the most commonly used medicines worldwide, has now been connected to higher blood pressure. This is a major risk factor for heart attacks and strokes.
Doctors and patients need to talk openly and think about the risks and benefits of using paracetamol for a long time, especially for people who are more likely to have heart problems.
What Can You Do?
If you’re using paracetamol for pain relief, it’s important to be aware of the possible risks. Always talk to your doctor or a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.
They can help you decide on the right dosage and duration for your specific situation.
Remember, taking care of your overall health, preventing infections, and staying healthy is important for everyone, no matter which medicine you use.
Paracetamol is a widely used medicine, but it’s important to be aware of the potential risks when using it for a long time, especially for people with high blood pressure.
The recent study raises questions and highlights the need for more research on the effects of paracetamol on heart health.
Always talk to your doctor or a healthcare professional if you have any concerns about your medication. They will guide you in making the best decisions for your health.
If you care about pain, please read studies about vitamins that could help reduce bone fracture risk, and most depression drug prescribed for chronic pain may be not effective or safe.
For more information about wellness, please see recent studies about new hope for treating knee pain, and scientists find the cause of chest pain.
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