10 Surprising Paracetamol Side Effects and Uses
A common over-the-counter medication, paracetamol is used by millions of people each year, but did you know that it can do much more than just relieve pain? Here are 10 Surprising Paracetamol Side Effects and Uses that may surprise you.
1) Treats Fever
You probably know that paracetamol (AKA acetaminophen) can be used to treat fever, but you might not realize it can also be used for many other conditions that cause pain or fever. For instance, paracetamol is commonly prescribed to patients who are undergoing a painful medical procedure like a biopsy. It’s also sometimes prescribed alongside NSAIDs, which are drugs that have been known to increase the risk of a heart attack in certain situations. Taking them together is thought to reduce the risk of side effects on your heart while also reducing pain levels. Of course, you should always talk with your doctor before trying any new medication!
2) Reduces Pain
Despite its high potential for addiction, paracetamol (known as acetaminophen in other countries) is one of the most commonly used over-the-counter pain relievers. The drug is highly effective at reducing mild to moderate pains like headaches and menstrual cramps. It works by suppressing your body’s production of prostaglandins, which are chemical messengers that send pain signals from nerve endings to your brain. By interfering with these pain signals, paracetamol also helps reduce inflammation caused by both arthritis and injury—though it is not as effective for more severe pain as NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) like aspirin or ibuprofen.
3) Treats Muscle Soreness
Taking paracetamol can help treat muscle soreness by reducing both pains and swelling in your muscles. Muscle soreness is caused when, after exercising, micro-tears form in your muscle fibers. If you’re taking medication that treats headaches or arthritis, talk to your doctor before using paracetamol to avoid interactions with other drugs. Some experts also believe that if you’re taking an anti-inflammatory medication like aspirin or ibuprofen, paracetamol may not be as effective at relieving pain. Just remember: like any drug, many different types of medications (both over-the-counter and prescription) can cause potential side effects if not taken correctly.
4) Helps with Headaches
Taking paracetamol can be an effective way to manage headaches and migraines. But it’s important to speak with your doctor if you have liver problems before taking paracetamol; according to WebMD, certain people should avoid over-the-counter pain relievers, including paracetamol. The drug can also interfere with some medications (including antidepressants). Be sure to check in with your doctor if you have these conditions—or are taking prescription medication—before using paracetamol as a pain reliever. And while many find it helps them feel better, keep in mind that aspirin or ibuprofen may be more effective at managing your migraine or headache than over-the-counter options.
5) Boost Your Immune System
One of the paracetamol’s most overlooked benefits is its ability to boost your immune system. In addition to acting as a fever reducer, paracetamol can help fight colds, flu, viruses, and other infections. In fact, a 2012 study in Pediatric Research found that taking Tylenol reduced kids' risk of developing a cold or flu by 20%. (It also helped relieve headaches and muscle pain.) Keep in mind that while several studies have looked at young' use of paracetamol to prevent or treat colds or sore throats, there isn't much data on what happens when you give it regularly to young children—especially those with health issues.
6) Reduce Congestion
Acetaminophen (also known as paracetamol) is a medication used to relieve pain, fever, and inflammation. Sometimes, it’s also used to reduce congestion due to colds or allergies. Unfortunately, many people don’t realize that there are serious potential side effects of using acetaminophen over time — especially when taken in large amounts. Common side effects include stomach pain or nausea; however, there are even more serious potential complications. For example, long-term use can cause damage to your liver if you take high doses for long periods.
7) Reduces Acne, Pimples & Blackheads
While it might seem counterintuitive, taking paracetamol can help to reduce acne, pimples, and blackheads. Taking paracetamol (or acetaminophen if you live in North America) for pain can be a useful way of reducing stress-related hormones that are known to contribute to acne outbreaks. Acne affects many people worldwide – perhaps you or someone you know will find relief in taking a couple of tablets after meals each day. If you’re looking for an alternative to using topical salicylic acid treatments like Clearasil, try taking some paracetamol instead!
8) Good for Antibiotic Treatment Side Effects
If you’re like me, you might think that taking antibiotics is as simple as swallowing a pill. And while some people experience no problems at all with medications, many folks suffer side effects. Even more serious are antibiotic-associated diarrhea and Clostridium difficile infections, which can be life-threatening. To minimize your risk of developing antibiotic-associated diarrhea or a C. difficile infection (or at least to avoid making it worse), try paracetamol instead of other pain relievers such as ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) or aspirin. The acid in your stomach breaks down paracetamol before it reaches your colon; in contrast, aspirin and ibuprofen increase inflammation by irritating sensitive intestines.
9) Relieves Urinary Tract Infections (UTI)
While paracetamol is most commonly used for its pain-relieving properties, it’s also been shown to be effective at relieving a UTI. It works by stopping bacteria from multiplying in your urinary tract. Researchers have found that it works even better than antibiotics to relieve symptoms of bacterial cystitis (UTI caused by E. coli). Be warned, though—paracetamol can cause kidney failure if taken in high doses for a long period. However, low doses for short periods are considered safe. The standard dose is 500mg every four to six hours until your symptoms have gone away.
10) Relieves IBS Symptoms
Many people have discovered that paracetamol can relieve painful symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), an intestinal disorder. While there is no cure for IBS, taking paracetamol may help reduce cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, diarrhea, or constipation. Additionally, most IBS sufferers have found that drinking plenty of water helps ease their symptoms as well. To treat your IBS symptoms effectively with a minimum of unpleasant side effects, consider visiting your doctor and asking if you could benefit from paracetamol therapy.
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