Millions of people across the UK reach for paracetamol to combat flu symptoms or everyday aches and pains. With approximately 200 million packets sold annually, it remains the nation’s most popular over-the-counter analgesic for rapid relief.
However, health experts warn that this household staple is not universally safe for every individual. Specific groups are being urged to consult a healthcare professional before use to mitigate the risk of dangerous side effects.
The NHS highlights that those with a history of kidney or liver issues must exercise extreme caution. Furthermore, anyone who has previously experienced an allergic reaction to medication should seek immediate guidance from a GP.
MORE ON HEALTHWho should seek medical advice?
According to official health guidelines, you should speak with a pharmacist or doctor if you fall into the following categories:
Those currently taking specific prescription medicationsIndividuals with a history of liver or kidney complicationsPeople who regularly exceed 14 units of alcohol per weekAdults weighing under 50kg (eight stone) who may require reduced dosagesAnyone with a known allergy to paracetamol or similar medicines
The NHS states: “Paracetamol is a common painkiller used to treat aches and pain. It can also be used to reduce a high temperature. It’s available to buy from a pharmacy or shop, but you may be able to get 1g tablets on prescription if you have long-term pain.”
The health service further clarifies: “It comes as tablets, capsules, syrup, powder that you mix with water, or suppositories. The 1g tablets are only available if prescribed by a doctor. Paracetamol is also available combined with other painkillers and anti-sickness medicines. It is used in a wide range of cold and flu remedies.”
Drug interactions and safety
While generally compatible with most antibiotics, paracetamol can interact poorly with specific long-term treatments. Patients using warfarin for blood clots, or medication for epilepsy and tuberculosis, must verify safety with their GP first, reports Lauren Haughey on the Mirror.
Regarding mixing treatments, the NHS advises: “It’s safe to take paracetamol with other types of painkiller that do not contain paracetamol, such as ibuprofen, aspirin or codeine. Do not take paracetamol alongside other medicines that contain paracetamol. If you take two different medicines that contain paracetamol, there’s a risk of overdose.”
“Adults can take two 500mg tablets, four times in 24 hours. You must wait at least four hours between doses. The maximum is eight 500mg tablets in 24 hours. If you’re taking 1g tablets, do not take more than four in 24 hours,” says the NHS.
New research into long-term use
Recent research from the University of Nottingham. The November 2024 study suggested that consistent use in elderly patients might heighten the risk of cardiovascular and renal issues.
Researchers analysed the medical data of over 180,000 individuals aged 65 and over who were prescribed the drug. This group was compared against 402,478 peers who did not use the medication regularly.
The data indicated that ‘prolonged paracetamol usage’ could significantly increase the chances of ‘serious complications’ like heart failure and stomach ulcers. Consequently, experts are calling for a review of how chronic pain is managed in older populations.
Lead author Professor Weiya Zhang said: “Whilst further research is now needed to confirm our findings, given its minimal pain-relief effect, the use of paracetamol as a first-line pain killer for long-term conditions such as osteoarthritis in older people needs to be carefully considered.”
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