If you’re dealing with a migraine, some achy muscles, or even a fever, you can turn to over-the-counter pain meds to find some relief. While these medications are generally safe when taken in moderation as needed, it’s important to remember that all supplements and medications come with potential risks—and some can be more dangerous than others. One type of painkiller in particular could do some serious damage to your liver if you aren’t careful. According to experts, Acetaminophen, a.k.a. Paracetamol, should always be taken with caution.
To learn more about the potential risks of taking too much Acetaminophen, especially when it comes to your liver, we spoke to health expert Krutika Nanavati, registered dietitian and nutritionist. She broke down the possible downsides. Find all of her expert insight below.
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Acetaminophen and liver damage
Acetaminophen is a common, widely used over-the-counter medication. It's used to treat pain, cold symptoms, and more. However, like many painkillers, it has its fair share of risks. As Nanavati warns, "excessive intake of Acetaminophen can cause severe liver damage." In fact, she tells us that it's one of the leading causes of acute liver failure in the United States." Yikes!
Luckily, educating yourself on the risks of this medication is the best thing you can do to protect yourself and ensure you're consuming it safely. "The primary concern stems from its easy accessibility and the lack of awareness about its potential toxicity among the general public," Nanavati tells us.
Unfortunately, the signs of Acetaminophen overdose may take some time to develop. "Nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain may not become apparent until 12-24 hours after ingestion," she says. "Jaundice, characterized by yellow discoloration of the skin, typically emerges around the third day after consumption, accompanied by reduced urine output and mental confusion."
On the extreme end of things, liver failure from Acetaminophen overdose can be fatal, "manifesting symptoms such as bruising and bleeding due to decreased blood clotting factors." If you're concerned that you may be experiencing Acetaminophen overdose, it's important to act quickly and contact a healthcare provider as soon as possible. Nanavati adds that "regular liver function tests can also serve as a preventive measure, alerting you to any potential harm before it becomes irreversible."
The good news is that Acetaminophen is effective and safe when used as directed. However, Nanavati stresses, "individuals seeking long-term pain management should consider exploring safer alternatives." She recommends "non-drug approaches, such as physical therapy or non-narcotic analgesics."
If you do find that Acetaminophen is the best option for you, she says, "it is crucial to carefully monitor the dosage." The best way to go is to adhere strictly to the recommended dosage and avoid combining multiple medications containing Acetaminophen.
"Remember, staying vigilant and informed is key in safeguarding against liver damage caused by Acetaminophen," Nanavati concludes. Noted!
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