Paracetamol (also known as acetaminophen) is one of the most commonly used pain relievers worldwide. It is often recommended as a safer alternative to NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), which can increase blood pressure and raise the risk of heart disease.
However, a new study from the University of Edinburgh suggests that long-term paracetamol use may also increase blood pressure, especially in people with hypertension (high blood pressure).
Study Findings
The study involved 110 patients with a history of high blood pressure. They were divided into two groups:
- One group took paracetamol (1 gram, four times a day) for two weeks.
- The other group received a placebo (a harmless pill with no active ingredient).
This dose of paracetamol is commonly prescribed for chronic pain conditions.
The results showed that people who took paracetamol had a noticeable increase in blood pressure, similar to the rise seen with NSAIDs. Researchers estimated that this could lead to a 20% higher risk of heart disease or stroke over time.
A New Concern for Long-Term Pain Management
For years, paracetamol has been seen as the safest option for pain relief, especially for people who cannot take NSAIDs due to heart or stomach issues. This new study challenges that assumption, particularly for people who already have high blood pressure.
Professor James Dear, one of the study’s authors, emphasized that these findings show how even widely used medications can have unexpected effects on blood pressure. Since high blood pressure increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes, this discovery is especially concerning for patients with existing cardiovascular risks.
What Should People with High Blood Pressure Do?
The researchers recommend that people with hypertension who rely on paracetamol for chronic pain should:
- Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time.
- Consult their doctor to review whether long-term paracetamol use is necessary.
- Monitor blood pressure regularly if taking paracetamol over an extended period.
Doctors may also need to re-evaluate pain management options for patients with high blood pressure to reduce potential heart risks.
Alternative Pain Relief Options
If you are concerned about pain management and high blood pressure, consider discussing alternative treatments with your doctor. These could include:
- Physical therapy
- Lifestyle changes (such as diet, weight management, and exercise)
- Other medications that may have fewer effects on blood pressure
At the same time, focusing on heart health—such as eating a balanced diet, staying active, and keeping stress levels low—can help reduce overall health risks.
Final Thoughts
This study, led by Iain MacIntyre and colleagues, was published in the journal Circulation. It serves as an important reminder that even everyday medications like paracetamol can have hidden risks.
People with high blood pressure or heart disease should not stop taking paracetamol without talking to their doctor, but they should be cautious about long-term use and explore other pain relief strategies when possible.
If you care about high blood pressure, please read studies that early time-restricted eating could help improve blood pressure, and natural coconut sugar could help reduce blood pressure and artery stiffness.
For more information about blood pressure, please see recent studies about How to eat your way to healthy blood pressure and results showing that Modified traditional Chinese cuisine can lower blood pressure.
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