A recent discovery by researchers at the University of Copenhagen has shed light on an unexpected side effect of acetaminophen, a common pain relief medication, particularly when administered intravenously in hospital settings.
Acetaminophen, known for its effectiveness in treating headaches and other minor aches, is often given orally. However, in hospitals, for patients unable to swallow pills, it’s frequently delivered through the veins.
This study has unveiled that intravenous administration of acetaminophen can lead to a significant, albeit temporary, decrease in blood pressure.
This finding raises concerns, especially for critically ill patients, as the research indicates that about 60% of such patients experience this drop in blood pressure, with one-third of them requiring medical intervention to stabilize it.
The research team explored the reasons behind this phenomenon and discovered that intravenous acetaminophen metabolism differs from oral intake, largely bypassing the liver.
This alternate metabolic pathway results in the creation of chemicals that impact blood pressure by affecting potassium channels, crucial in the regulation of blood vessel function and blood pressure management.
Experiments conducted on rats, involving drugs that block these potassium channels, showed promise in mitigating the issue of blood pressure reduction.
Despite these findings, acetaminophen remains a relatively safe medication, extensively utilized in medical care. Healthcare professionals are often aware of this side effect but continue to prescribe the drug due to its overall benefits.
The study, spearheaded by Thomas Qvistgaard Jepps and published in Atherosclerosis, Thrombosis, and Vascular Biology, emphasizes the significance of the administration method on a drug’s effects.
It suggests that while acetaminophen is generally safe for use following recommended dosages, caution is advised in hospital settings where the drug is delivered intravenously.
For individuals concerned about blood pressure management or the use of pain relief medications, this research underscores the importance of adhering to prescribed doses and understanding how various drug delivery methods can influence bodily responses.
This insight is particularly crucial in optimizing care for critically ill patients, highlighting the need for continuous exploration and understanding of the complexities surrounding commonly used medications.
If you care about pain, please read studies about vitamin K deficiency linked to hip fractures in old people, and these vitamins could help reduce bone fracture risk.
For more information about wellness, please see recent studies that Krill oil could improve muscle health in older people, and eating yogurt linked to lower frailty in older people.
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