Paracetamol, also known as acetaminophen, is one of the most commonly used medicines around the world.
People often take it to reduce pain or bring down a fever. Whether it’s a headache, sore muscles, or general discomfort, paracetamol is usually the first medicine many people reach for. It’s cheap, easy to find, and doesn’t need a prescription.
For those living with long-term pain—like arthritis—doctors often recommend paracetamol as a safer choice compared to stronger painkillers.
But a new study from the University of Edinburgh is now raising questions about how safe paracetamol really is, especially for people who already have high blood pressure.
In the past, a group of painkillers called NSAIDs (like ibuprofen) were shown to raise blood pressure and increase the risk of heart problems.
Because of that, doctors began suggesting paracetamol instead, thinking it was gentler on the heart. However, this new research suggests that taking paracetamol for a long time might also affect blood pressure in a bad way.
The study included 110 people who already had high blood pressure. Researchers divided them into two groups. One group took paracetamol four times a day, and the other group took a placebo, which looked just like paracetamol but had no medicine in it. This helped the researchers see if any changes were really caused by the drug itself.
After a short time, they noticed something important: people who took paracetamol had higher blood pressure than those who took the placebo. The rise in blood pressure was not small—it was similar to what happens when people take NSAIDs.
Over time, higher blood pressure can lead to more heart attacks or strokes. In fact, researchers estimated that the risk of serious heart problems could go up by about 20% for regular paracetamol users with high blood pressure.
This is a big deal because high blood pressure is already one of the main causes of heart disease and stroke. When blood pressure stays high, it puts extra pressure on the heart and blood vessels. If you’re already at risk for heart problems, even a small increase in blood pressure could be dangerous.
Millions of people use paracetamol regularly, often without thinking about side effects. This new study suggests that people with high blood pressure should be careful and talk to their doctor. It may still be okay to take paracetamol occasionally, but long-term use could come with risks.
Dr. James Dear, one of the researchers, said that doctors and patients now need to think more carefully about using paracetamol, especially if heart health is already a concern. He believes that these findings may change how doctors recommend pain relief in the future.
If you take paracetamol often, especially for long-term pain, it’s a good idea to have a chat with your doctor. They can help you decide whether it’s safe for you and whether other options might work better. This could include using a lower dose, taking the medicine for a shorter time, or trying other ways to manage pain.
Good health habits also play a big role in keeping pain and blood pressure under control. Eating healthy food, getting regular exercise, and going for checkups can help you stay well. If you deal with chronic pain, your doctor might suggest physical therapy or lifestyle changes that can reduce your need for medication.
Paracetamol is still a useful medicine, but this new study shows that even everyday drugs can have side effects. As scientists learn more, staying informed can help you make safer choices. When it comes to your health, even small decisions—like which pill to take—can make a big difference.
Always speak with your healthcare provider before making changes to your medications. They are your best guide to staying safe and healthy.
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