The drug is generally safe but taking even a few pills above the recommended daily dose could have extremely dangerous consequences
Paracetamol is s generally safe as long as the recommended dosage is followed(Image: Getty)
A critical alert has been sounded for those who frequently use paracetamol. The common pain reliever, used to ease headaches and muscle aches, is safe when taken within the advised limits.
Dipa Kamdar, a senior lecturer in pharmacy practice at Kingston University, has highlighted the “extremely dangerous” risks of exceeding the recommended dose of paracetamol, which can severely harm the liver.
While alcohol consumption is widely recognised as a cause of liver damage, Mrs Kamdar points out that certain “often overlooked” everyday habits could also precipitate grave health issues, including irreversible liver scarring or even liver failure.
In her article for The Conversation, she notes that an overdose of paracetamol can be life-threatening, just like consuming too much sugar, saturated fats, and smoking.
The specialist wrote: “Despite its remarkable resilience – and even its ability to regenerate – the liver is not indestructible.”
She explains that liver disease can often go unnoticed initially, presenting only subtle symptoms such as persistent tiredness or feeling sick, reports the Express.
As the condition worsens, more pronounced indicators can appear. Jaundice, characterised by yellowing of the skin and eye whites, is one of the most distinctive signs.
A close-up image of a woman in a kitchen taking medication(Image: Getty)
Paracetamol breaking down in the liver generates the harmful substance NAPQI, which is typically neutralised by the protective agent glutathione.
However, the liver can become overburdened if an individual consumes an excessive amount of paracetamol, leading to a surge of NAPQI in the body.
Mrs Kamdar explained that in the event of an overdose, glutathione reserves are exhausted, allowing NAPQI to build up and damage liver cells.
She warned that this could lead to acute liver failure, which can be life-threatening. The specialist highlighted that even minor overdoses, or mixing paracetamol with alcohol, can heighten the risk of severe harm.
Her advice is to always adhere to the recommended dosage and consult a doctor if you frequently require pain relief.