A new study conducted by the University of Nottingham has raised concerns about the long-term use of paracetamol, particularly among adults aged 65 and older. Although commonly prescribed for mild to moderate pain and conditions like osteoarthritis, the study found that paracetamol use could significantly increase the risks of gastrointestinal bleeding, chronic kidney disease, heart failure, and hypertension in older populations. Researchers analyzed health data of over 580,000 people, revealing a 24% higher risk of peptic ulcer bleeding and a 19% rise in kidney disease for those using the drug regularly. Given these findings, experts urge a reconsideration of its use as a first-line treatment, especially for osteoarthritis in older adults. The study also calls for further research to confirm the long-term effects of paracetamol use.
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