Paracetamol is widely known as a safer alternative to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for managing pain.
Unlike NSAIDs, which are known to increase blood pressure and the risk of heart disease, paracetamol has long been considered a less risky option, particularly for people with high blood pressure.
However, new research from the University of Edinburgh suggests that paracetamol might not be as harmless as previously thought, especially with long-term use.
The study, led by Dr. Iain MacIntyre and his team, involved 110 patients who had a history of high blood pressure.
These participants were given one gram of paracetamol four times a day, a standard dose often prescribed for managing chronic pain. For comparison, another group was given a placebo, a treatment with no active ingredients, for the same two-week period.
The findings were surprising and concerning. Patients taking paracetamol showed a noticeable increase in blood pressure compared to those taking the placebo.
This increase was similar to the rise in blood pressure typically seen with NSAIDs. Based on this, the researchers estimated that long-term paracetamol use could raise the risk of heart disease or stroke by as much as 20%.
These results are significant because paracetamol is the most commonly used painkiller globally. It is often recommended for people with conditions like high blood pressure because it is thought to have fewer side effects than NSAIDs.
However, this study suggests that the long-term use of paracetamol may not be as safe as assumed, particularly for individuals already at risk for cardiovascular issues.
The researchers highlighted the need for caution in patients who rely on paracetamol for managing chronic pain, especially those with high blood pressure or a history of heart problems.
They advised using the lowest effective dose of paracetamol for the shortest possible time to reduce potential risks. Patients and doctors should carefully weigh the benefits and risks of prolonged paracetamol use, particularly for those with existing health concerns.
The study’s findings suggest that prescriptions for paracetamol may need to be reviewed for individuals with high blood pressure.
Doctors might need to consider alternative pain management strategies or adjust the dosage and duration of paracetamol treatment to minimize cardiovascular risks.
This research adds to a growing understanding of how even widely used and seemingly safe medications can pose unexpected risks for certain groups.
It underscores the importance of ongoing studies to better understand the potential side effects of common drugs like paracetamol, especially for patients with conditions that increase their risk of heart disease or stroke.
The study, published in the journal Circulation, encourages patients to stay informed about their medications and to discuss any concerns with their doctors.
For those with high blood pressure or other cardiovascular risk factors, exploring alternative pain relief options or carefully managing paracetamol use could make a significant difference in long-term health outcomes.
While paracetamol remains an effective pain reliever for many, this research reminds us that even commonly trusted medications are not risk-free.
For individuals with chronic health conditions, thoughtful conversations with healthcare providers are essential to ensure safe and effective treatment plans.
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