Common painkillers may cause medical complications in people 65 and older: study

New research reveals that generic medicines may not be safe for everyone.

Acetaminophen, brand name Tylenol, is a pain reliever and fever reducer that is often included in other medicines, such as cold and flu medicines.

A UK study published in Arthritis Care & Research, the official journal of the American College of Rheumatology, analyzed the drug’s safety in older people.

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Researchers view user data More than 180,000 acetaminophen users compared to 400,000 non-users from 1998 to 2018.

The results showed that the use of acetaminophen This is sometimes called paracetamol. It is associated with an increased risk of serious medical complications.

Acetaminophen may be found in cough, cold, and flu medicines, as well as in creams, gels, lozenges, and even suppositories. One elderly doctor remarked. (Istock)

This includes bleeding from a stomach ulcer. uncomplicated stomach ulcer Bleeding in the lower gastrointestinal tract, heart failure, high blood pressure. and chronic kidney disease

In a University of Nottingham press release sent to Fox News Digital, lead study author Professor Weiya Zhang, PhD, clarified that long-term use of the drug should “Consider carefully”

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“Due to the perception of safety Paracetamol has long been recommended as the first line treatment for osteoarthritis. by several treatment approaches This is especially true in the elderly, who are at higher risk of drug complications,” he wrote.

“While further research is needed to confirm our findings, This is because paracetamol is least effective in relieving pain. Paracetamol is used as a first-line painkiller for long-term conditions such as osteoarthritis in the elderly. It needs to be carefully considered.”

“This is a good reminder that all medications used regularly have side effects,” one doctor said. (Istock)

Dr. Marc Siegel, clinical professor of medicine at NYU Langone Health and senior medical analyst for Fox News, shared his reaction with Fox News Digital.

“It is generally accepted that acetaminophen is not associated with gastrointestinal bleeding or progressive kidney disease. But minds are starting to change on this matter,” said a doctor who was not involved in the study.

“Yes, over-the-counter drugs are still drugs.”

There is evidence to suggest that acetaminophen It “modulates the cyclooxygenase-related pathway,” as does anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen, which can “increase adverse gastrointestinal side effects,” according to Zeke. l

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Commenting on the large UK study, the doctor said it was limited by “observation” as well as “the inability to track over-the-counter prescriptions. This is different from prescriptions being tracked.”

Another potential limitation is that some users have other factors and behaviors, such as smoking and obesity.

“Prostacycline inhibition may increase the risk of bleeding,” doctors warn about the drug. (Istock)

“Still, this is a good reminder that all medicines used regularly have side effects. And we’re not always sure what those drugs are,” he said. “This is why we continue to do post-market analysis and re-evaluate drugs.”

He continued, “And yes, over-the-counter drugs are still drugs. Acetaminophen is well known for its liver toxicity. But there are other side effects as well, as this study suggests.”

Fox News Digital contacted Kenvue, Inc., the manufacturer of Tylenol, for comment on the study.

Risks for the Elderly

Internal Medicine Physician Dr. Macie P. Smith in South Carolina which is not related to this research study. There were reactions to this discovery as well.

“I’m glad people are talking about the side effects of certain medicines. and how those drugs disproportionately affect people 65 and older,” she told Fox News Digital.

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Many medications are not recommended for seniors, Smith said.

“Just because they can tolerate a drug at a young age doesn’t mean their body can tolerate the same drug as they get older. Because their bodies and brains change as they age,” she said.

People over 65 years of age should consult their doctor before taking the drug. Experts recommend (Istock)

Some of the complications mentioned in the study include gastrointestinal bleeding. High blood pressure and kidney disease can increase your risk of stroke. Alzheimer’s disease Dementia Or even premature death, according to Smith.

“I recommend that seniors consult with their primary care physician before taking over-the-counter medications. This is because acetaminophen is found in cold and flu medicines. including in creams and (ointments),” she advised.

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“Anything that is labeled as a medicine should be discussed with a doctor. Because geriatrics is a specialized practice. And those in this category should be given special care.”

Smith also recommends that seniors use only one pharmacy. Therefore, pharmacists can consult A patient’s “ledger” of prescription drugs can be created.

“I would recommend that seniors consult with their primary care physician before taking over-the-counter medications.”

“If someone over 65 comes to pick up over-the-counter medicine, Pharmacists will be able to easily and quickly check for drug side effects and possible interactions between prescriptions and OTC medicines,” she said.

Experts say that the aging brain and body may not be able to handle the types of drugs that can be administered in childhood. (Istock)

In particular, acetaminophen should be used. “Out of caution” and under medical supervision for people 65 and older, she cautioned.

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Smith encourages seniors and caregivers “Read the important information that comes with every medicine.”

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She added: “Do not hesitate to talk with your pharmacist and/or doctor about the risks and benefits. Then make an informed decision and choose well.”

Fox News Digital has reached out to several drugmakers for comment.