New study links paracetamol to side effects in digestive tract, heart, kidneys among older adults

NEW DELHI: Paracetamol, a common over-the-counter medication, may increase the risk of gastrointestinal, heart- and kidney-related complications among adults aged 65 and above, a new study has found.

Taken commonly for treating mild-to-moderate fever, paracetamol is also the first drug recommended for treating osteoarthritis — a chronic condition causing pain, stiffness and swelling in the joints due to wear-and-tear — as it is considered effective, relatively safe and accessible.

However, some studies have provided evidence to contest the effectiveness of paracetamol in relieving pain while others have shown increased risks of gastrointestinal side effects, such as ulcers and bleeding, from prolonged use.