HIGHLIGHTS
- Although they are created to help recover from illness, using too much of them can lead to serious side effects.
- An over-the-counter medication as common as paracetamol could also have side effects if not used wisely.
- Whether it’s to drop body temperature or treat pain, don’t feel tempted to double the dose as experts warn of the risk of kidney and liver damage.
How much paracetamol is safe for us?
Drug-induced liver injury is a serious clinical problem, which is why it is important to use medications wisely. According to recent research published in the journal Scientific Reports, the impact of paracetamol on liver cells in human and murine tissues has been evaluated.
The findings suggest that pain relief could have a detrimental effect on the liver as it impairs structural connections between adjacent cells in the organ. As a result, the structure of the liver tissue is damaged, the cells lose their ability to function properly and can then die. This form of damage is similar to that suffered by patients with hepatitis, cancer and cirrhosis.
Warning: The tips and suggestions mentioned in the article are for general information purposes only and should not be construed as professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or dietitian before starting any fitness program or making any changes to your diet.
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