Paracetamol, also known as acetaminophen, is one of the most commonly used medicines for pain and fever relief.
Many people reach for paracetamol when they have a headache, muscle ache, or general discomfort.
It’s readily available, often inexpensive, and doesn’t need a prescription, making it popular worldwide. For people with long-term pain issues, such as those with arthritis, doctors sometimes suggest using paracetamol as a safer option than other painkillers.
However, recent research suggests that paracetamol might not be as risk-free as previously thought, especially for those with high blood pressure.
In the past, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like ibuprofen, were shown to increase blood pressure and risk of heart problems.
Because of these findings, doctors often recommend paracetamol instead of NSAIDs to patients with high blood pressure, as it was thought to be safer for the heart.
This new study from the University of Edinburgh, however, is raising concerns that long-term use of paracetamol might also have unexpected side effects on blood pressure.
The researchers studied 110 patients, all with a history of high blood pressure. To understand paracetamol’s effects, they divided the participants into two groups.
One group took a regular dose of paracetamol four times a day, while the other group received a placebo, which looked the same as the paracetamol pill but didn’t contain any medicine.
This way, scientists could see if any changes in blood pressure were actually from the paracetamol and not just by chance.
Over the course of the study, the researchers found that people taking paracetamol had a noticeable rise in their blood pressure compared to those who were on the placebo. The increase was not minor; it was similar to what happens when people take NSAIDs.
The higher blood pressure seen in the paracetamol group might lead to a greater risk of heart issues like heart attacks or strokes over time—possibly increasing these risks by about 20%.
These results are important because blood pressure is one of the key factors influencing heart health. When blood pressure is too high for long periods, it puts more strain on the heart and blood vessels, which can lead to heart disease and strokes.
Since paracetamol has been widely seen as safe, many people with high blood pressure rely on it to manage pain. But this study suggests they may need to rethink this approach.
The study’s findings may change the way healthcare providers view paracetamol, particularly for people with existing high blood pressure or those at higher risk of heart issues.
Dr. James Dear, one of the researchers involved in the study, highlights that this popular medication, used by millions, may contribute to a significant rise in blood pressure—a serious risk factor for heart problems.
According to him, these findings make it necessary for both doctors and patients to consider the potential risks before choosing paracetamol for long-term pain relief, especially if they are already at risk for heart-related issues.
If you rely on paracetamol regularly, it’s worth discussing with your doctor, especially if you have high blood pressure. Doctors can help determine if paracetamol is the best choice for you and may suggest alternative pain management options if needed.
They may also work with you to find the right dose and the safest duration for taking the medicine.
Aside from medications, overall health plays a big role in managing pain and preventing heart-related issues. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and a routine health checkup can all help support your heart and blood pressure.
If you experience chronic pain, ask your doctor about safe ways to manage it, which might include lifestyle changes or physical therapy along with or instead of medication.
Paracetamol continues to be one of the most widely used pain relief options globally, but this study highlights that even commonly used medications can have unexpected effects on our health.
As researchers continue to explore these effects, staying informed about the possible risks can help you make the best choices for your health.
Always talk to your healthcare provider if you have questions or concerns about any medication. They are there to help you navigate the risks and benefits, so you can make the most informed choices for your long-term health.
If you care about high blood pressure, please read studies about breakfast for better blood pressure management, and the gut feeling that lowers blood pressure.
For more health information, please see recent studies about how the dash diet helps lower blood pressure, and how to eat your way to healthy blood pressure.
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