Over-the-counter painkillers can be a godsend for many of us. Whether they’re needed to relieve a headache, back ache or get rid of cold or flu symptoms, they make dealing with minor health issues more bearable.
In the UK we rely heavily on paracetamol, a medicine used to treat mild to moderate pain.
According to the University of Oxford, we buy around 6,300 tonnes each year – equivalent to roughly 70 tablets per person.
But as with any medication, it can come with some risks.
Doctor Donald Grant, GP and senior clinical advisor at The Independent Pharmacy, issued a warning on paracetamol intake and revealed the potential long-term effects.
He explained: “Taking too much paracetamol or utilising the medication when it’s not needed can pose significant risks to our physical wellbeing – both immediately and in the long-term.
“It’s important to understand the risks that come with paracetamol to ensure it’s only taken when needed.”
He therefore urged people to never take more paracetamol than is needed or take it while drinking alcohol.
This could result in serious liver damage, Dr Grant said, and even death.
“Too much paracetamol can have drastic effects on liver health, causing damage and risking failure,” he said.
“This occurs when there’s too much of the drug present in the body, highlighting how important it is to stick to recommended dosages for the maintenance of a healthy lifestyle.
“To avoid causing damage to the liver, it’s also important to avoid consuming alcohol when taking paracetamol as the combination of the two can drastically increase the risk of damage.
“Ingesting more than the recommended daily amount of paracetamol can result in overdose, which has a range of symptoms including jaundice, nausea, loss of appetite and confusion. It may even result in death in extreme circumstances.
“An antidote can be administered to treat a paracetamol overdose, but this must be done urgently.”
According to Public Health England, around 100,000 people are admitted to hospital each year as a result of overdosing on paracetamol.
Recommended dosage
It’s vital to understand the recommended paracetamol dosage for adults and children, to avoid a dangerous intake, Dr Grant said.
He continued: “Adults can take two 500mg tablets every four to six hours and are not recommended to exceed eight tablets over 24 hours. This can be even lower for those weighing less than eight stone.
“For children, it’s best to discuss the correct dosage based on the child’s specific age and weight, to ensure the correct amount of paracetamol is administered.
“By understanding the health risks that come with a high intake of paracetamol and learning the recommended dosage, people can avoid long-term health implications and the risk of overdose.”