Paracetamol, also known as acetaminophen in some countries, is one of the most widely used medicines in the world.
Millions of people take it every day to treat headaches, fever, muscle pain, arthritis, and other common health problems. It is inexpensive, easy to buy without a prescription, and has long been considered one of the safer pain relief options available.
Because of its reputation for safety, doctors often recommend paracetamol for people who need regular pain treatment, especially older adults and people with chronic conditions such as arthritis.
For many years, paracetamol was viewed as safer for the heart than another major group of painkillers called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs. These medicines include ibuprofen, naproxen, and diclofenac.
Earlier research showed that NSAIDs can raise blood pressure and increase the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular problems, particularly when used regularly over long periods. As a result, many doctors began suggesting paracetamol instead, especially for people with high blood pressure or existing heart disease.
However, a new study from the University of Edinburgh is now challenging the belief that paracetamol is completely harmless for the heart.
The researchers wanted to examine whether long-term use of paracetamol could also affect blood pressure. Their findings suggest that the medicine may not be as safe as many people assumed, especially for individuals who already have hypertension.
High blood pressure, also called hypertension, is a major global health problem. It happens when blood pushes too strongly against artery walls for long periods of time. Over time, this extra pressure damages blood vessels and forces the heart to work harder.
Uncontrolled high blood pressure greatly increases the risk of heart attacks, strokes, kidney disease, heart failure, and early death. Because hypertension often causes no clear symptoms, many people may not realize their blood pressure is dangerously high.
The study from the University of Edinburgh involved 110 participants who already had high blood pressure. Researchers divided the participants into two groups.
One group took paracetamol four times a day, which is considered a typical high daily dose used by many people with chronic pain. The second group received a placebo, which looked identical to the medicine but contained no active drug.
The researchers carefully monitored the participants’ blood pressure during the study.
The results surprised many experts.
People taking paracetamol showed a clear increase in blood pressure compared to those taking the placebo. The increase was similar to the blood pressure changes previously seen with NSAID painkillers.
This finding is important because even relatively small increases in blood pressure can have serious long-term health effects. Researchers estimate that a modest rise in blood pressure may increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes by around 20%.
For people who already have hypertension or cardiovascular disease, this extra risk may become especially concerning.
Dr. James Dear, one of the lead researchers, said the findings suggest people should think carefully about long-term daily use of paracetamol. Although the medicine is trusted by millions and remains useful for many patients, he warned that it may still carry hidden risks that doctors and patients need to consider.
The researchers emphasized that the findings do not mean people should immediately stop using paracetamol altogether. For short-term use, such as treating occasional headaches, fever, or temporary pain, the medicine is still generally considered safe for most people.
The concern mainly involves people who take high doses regularly for long periods of time, especially those with existing high blood pressure or heart-related health problems.
Doctors say patients with chronic pain should talk with their healthcare providers before making changes to their medication routines. In some cases, doctors may recommend lower doses, shorter treatment periods, or alternative pain management approaches.
The study also highlights the importance of monitoring blood pressure regularly, especially for people who need ongoing pain treatment.
Researchers point out that managing chronic pain often requires a broader approach than medication alone. Physical therapy, exercise, weight management, stress reduction, stretching, relaxation techniques, and healthy sleep habits may also help reduce pain in some people.
Lifestyle changes such as healthy eating, regular exercise, limiting salt intake, and maintaining a healthy weight are also important for keeping blood pressure under control.
The findings are another reminder that even common medicines can have side effects, especially when used frequently or over long periods. Many medications that seem safe for occasional use may carry different risks when taken every day for years.
Scientists say more research is still needed to fully understand how paracetamol affects the cardiovascular system and whether some groups of people are more vulnerable than others.
For now, experts advise patients not to panic but to stay informed. People who regularly use paracetamol for chronic pain should discuss the risks and benefits with their doctors to make sure they are using the safest treatment plan possible.
The study adds to growing evidence that medicine may need to become more personalized, with doctors considering each patient’s overall health risks before recommending long-term treatments.
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