Researchers from the University of Nottingham have found that long-term use of paracetamol may be associated with an increased risk of conditions such as peptic ulcers, heart failure, hypertension, and chronic kidney disease. The study, led by Professor Weiya Zhang, suggests that while paracetamol is often the first-line treatment due to its perceived safety, older adults may be particularly vulnerable to its side effects.
“Older people are at a higher risk of drug-related complications, which makes the use of paracetamol in this group a cause for concern,” said Professor Zhang. “While it remains a popular choice for managing pain, especially for chronic conditions, the potential risks associated with prolonged use should not be overlooked.”
Paracetamol is commonly prescribed for long-term conditions such as osteoarthritis and back pain, often as the go-to option due to its reputation as a safer alternative to other painkillers. However, the study found that the risks of extended use, especially in older adults, may outweigh its benefits.
In the study, health records of over 180,000 individuals who were regularly prescribed paracetamol were analysed and compared to data from more than 400,000 people who did not use the drug. All participants were aged 65 and older, with an average age of 75. The findings suggest that while paracetamol’s pain-relieving effects are modest, its potential to cause long-term harm may make it less suitable as a first-line treatment for ongoing pain in older individuals.
Professor Zhang emphasized the need for further research to confirm these results, but urged healthcare professionals to carefully consider alternative pain management strategies for older patients.
Exploring alternatives to paracetamol
As concerns grow over the safety of prolonged paracetamol use, alternatives to traditional painkillers are being explored. One promising option is cannabidiol (CBD), a compound derived from marijuana. A study published in November 2023 found thatCBD was an effective alternative to opioid painkillers for managing dental pain.
Participants who received CBD reported an average 70% reduction in pain, with 85% of those treated seeing at least a 50% decrease in discomfort. Notably, those who used CBD also showed an improvement in bite force, suggesting that the compound may offer additional benefits for oral health by enhancing tooth function.
Another unconventional pain relief strategy gaining attention is the use of music. A recent study found that listening to emotionally resonant music can reduce pain sensitivity. Participants who listened to music they found moving experienced pain reductions comparable to those achieved by over-the-counter painkillers.
“Music has the potential to be a powerful tool in pain management,” said lead author Darius Valevicius. “In some cases, its effects can be as effective as a standard painkiller.”
As research into non-pharmacological treatments continues to evolve, these alternatives may offer promising options for those seeking to manage pain without the risks associated with prolonged use of traditional medications like paracetamol.
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