Scientists have discovered that even very low doses of paracetamol can damage the heart. US researchers have found that the off-the-shelf drug, sold in supermarkets around the world and commonly used in the UK, changed proteins in the heart tissue of mice.
The average Brit takes 70 tablets a year. “Regular use of acetaminophen at concentrations considered safe (equivalent to 500 mg per day) has been shown to alter numerous signaling pathways within the heart,” said Dr. Gabriela Rivera from the University of California, Davis. ” he said.
“We expected a few pathways to be altered, but we found that over 20 different signaling pathways were affected. We started looking at using it in small doses and for the shortest possible time.”
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The latest research was presented at the American Physiology Summit in Long Beach, California. They found that the tablets caused changes in the mice’s heart tissue, an indicator of how well the organ was functioning.
Mice given paracetamol showed significant changes in the levels of proteins associated with biochemical pathways involved in a variety of functions after a seven-day study, the study results published across Pond said.
Researchers warned that long-term use at moderate to high doses could cause heart problems due to oxidative stress and toxin build-up. The NHS website states: “Adults can take two 500mg tablets four times within 24 hours. The doses should be separated by at least 4 hours.” .
“Do not take more than 8 tablets in a 24-hour period.” It adds, “There is no harm in taking an extra tablet or two. Do not take more than 8 tablets in a 24-hour period.” Masu. The tablets come in different strengths and the painkiller can also be taken orally via syrup, the NHS says.
