A new study conducted by the University of Edinburgh has unveiled potential risks associated with paracetamol tablets, commonly known as acetaminophen in Western countries. The research, primarily conducted on mice, has raised concerns about the link between paracetamol and liver damage, urging caution regarding its usage, especially in cases of overuse and overdose.
Published in Scientific Reports and supported in part by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council and the Chief Scientist Office, the study involved collaboration between researchers from the Universities of Edinburgh and Oslo, along with the Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service.
According to Dr Shruti Ketkar, a hepatologist and gastroenterologist, the study demonstrated that under certain circumstances, paracetamol could potentially damage the liver by interfering with structural junctions crucial for the proper functioning of neighboring liver cells.
Dr Guru N. Reddy, Chief of Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases at a hospital, emphasized the permitted dosage for adults, ranging from 650 to 1,000 mg every 4-6 hours, up to 3,000 mg per day. However, he warned against exceeding this limit, as doses of 6,000 mg and above could lead to acute liver injury and liver failure. Dr Reddy noted that paracetamol overdoses are underreported in India, where it is commonly used as a primary analgesic drug for various pain levels.
Dr K. Somnath Gupta, a senior consultant physician and diabetologist, stressed the urgency of stringent dosage regulations and clear guidelines for healthcare professionals and consumers. He highlighted the need for patient education and proactive monitoring of liver function to detect early signs of damage, allowing for timely interventions and dosage adjustments. Additionally, he advocated for exploring alternative therapies and minimizing the use of multiple medications with potential hepatotoxicity.
The study’s findings have ignited discussions within the medical community about the necessity for safer medication practices and enhanced post-marketing surveillance. Dr Ketkar emphasized the critical importance of exercising caution in the use of seemingly benign medications, especially as concerns about antimicrobial resistance continue to grow.
