Paracetamol, often seen as a safer option than non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), is widely used to manage pain.
While NSAIDs are known to increase blood pressure and the risk of heart disease, paracetamol has generally been viewed as a safer alternative, especially for people with chronic pain.
However, a recent study from the University of Edinburgh has raised concerns about the potential cardiovascular risks of long-term paracetamol use, particularly in individuals with high blood pressure.
The study examined how long-term paracetamol use affects blood pressure, a key risk factor for heart disease and stroke. Researchers worked with 110 patients who had a history of high blood pressure.
These participants were given either one gram of paracetamol four times a day—a typical prescription dose for chronic pain—or a placebo for two weeks.
The findings were surprising and concerning. Patients who took paracetamol experienced a noticeable increase in their blood pressure compared to those on the placebo.
The rise in blood pressure was similar to what is observed with NSAIDs and is estimated to increase the risk of heart disease or stroke by about 20%.
This suggests that paracetamol, often considered benign, may have significant effects on cardiovascular health, especially for people already at risk.
Given these results, the researchers recommend that doctors carefully review long-term paracetamol prescriptions, particularly for patients with high blood pressure or those already at risk of heart disease or stroke.
They suggest using the lowest effective dose of paracetamol for the shortest possible time to minimize potential risks.
This study challenges the common perception of paracetamol as a harmless drug. While it remains an important tool for managing pain, its long-term use should be approached with caution, especially for individuals at risk of cardiovascular problems.
Doctors and patients are encouraged to weigh the risks and benefits of prolonged paracetamol use, considering other treatment options or lifestyle changes to manage pain when appropriate.
The study, led by Dr. Iain MacIntyre and published in Circulation, highlights the need for further research to better understand the long-term effects of paracetamol on heart health.
In the meantime, these findings serve as an important reminder to use pain medications judiciously and under medical supervision, particularly for individuals with preexisting health conditions.
If you care about heart disease, please read studies about a big cause of heart failure, and common blood test could advance heart failure treatment.
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