Paracetamol, also known as acetaminophen, is one of the most commonly used painkillers worldwide.
It’s often recommended as a safer alternative to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which are known to increase blood pressure and the risk of heart disease.
However, a new study from the University of Edinburgh suggests that long-term use of paracetamol may not be as risk-free as previously thought, especially for people with high blood pressure.
The study focused on 110 patients who had a history of high blood pressure. These participants were divided into two groups: one group received a common prescription dose of paracetamol (one gram, four times a day) for two weeks, while the other group received a placebo.
This dose is typically prescribed to people with chronic pain conditions. The researchers found that those who took paracetamol experienced a significant rise in blood pressure compared to the placebo group.
The increase in blood pressure caused by paracetamol was similar to that seen with NSAIDs. According to the researchers, this rise could lead to a 20% higher risk of heart disease or stroke over time.
These findings challenge the idea that paracetamol is a completely safe option for managing chronic pain in people with high blood pressure.
For years, paracetamol has been widely used as a go-to pain relief medication, particularly for people who are advised to avoid NSAIDs due to their effects on the heart and stomach.
However, this study highlights the need for caution when prescribing or using paracetamol over the long term, especially for those already at risk of heart problems.
The researchers recommend that people with high blood pressure who rely on paracetamol for chronic pain should use the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time.
They also suggest that doctors review the long-term use of paracetamol in patients who have high blood pressure or a history of heart disease.
Professor James Dear, one of the study’s authors, emphasized that these findings are important because they show how even paracetamol, often considered harmless, can have unintended effects on blood pressure.
Since high blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart attacks and strokes, this discovery is particularly concerning for patients who already have cardiovascular risks.
This study underscores the importance of balancing the benefits and risks of long-term medication use. While paracetamol can be an effective pain reliever, it may not be the safest option for everyone.
Patients and doctors should work together to explore alternative pain management strategies or carefully monitor blood pressure when paracetamol is prescribed for extended periods.
For those concerned about pain management, exploring other treatment options, such as physical therapy, lifestyle changes, or different medications, might be worth discussing with a healthcare provider.
At the same time, keeping an eye on heart health through regular blood pressure monitoring, maintaining a healthy diet, and staying physically active can help reduce the risks associated with chronic pain treatments.
This study, conducted by Iain MacIntyre and colleagues, was published in Circulation. It serves as a reminder that even widely used medications like paracetamol may have risks that need to be carefully considered, particularly for people already at risk of heart disease or stroke.
If you care about pain, please read studies about how to manage gout with a low-purine diet, and a guide to eating right for arthritis.
For more health information, please see recent studies about the link between processed foods and chronic diseases, and avoid these 8 foods to ease arthritis pain.
