Serious Risks Associated with Regular Use of Paracetamol for People with High Blood Pressure

Regular users of paracetamol with high blood pressure should be aware of the potential health risks associated with this combination. A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Edinburgh has found that paracetamol has a similar effect on blood pressure as non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen, which are known to increase blood pressure levels. This rise in blood pressure can elevate the risk of heart disease and strokes, despite these drugs being commonly prescribed for chronic pain management.

In light of these findings, healthcare providers are advising that patients with high blood pressure who are on long-term paracetamol prescriptions should be given the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible. Previously, it was believed that paracetamol was a safe option for individuals with hypertension.

The research suggests an approximate 20% increase in the risk of heart disease or stroke due to the rise in blood pressure caused by the use of paracetamol. Published in the journal Circulation in 2022, the study recommends a reassessment of long-term paracetamol prescriptions, especially for patients with high blood pressure or those at particular risk of heart disease or stroke.

Professor James Dear, personal chairman of clinical pharmacology at the University of Edinburgh, stated, “This study clearly shows that paracetamol – the world’s most used drug – increases blood pressure, one of the most important risk factors for heart attacks and strokes. Doctors and patients should carefully consider the risks versus the benefits of long-term paracetamol prescription, especially in patients at risk of cardiovascular disease. In summary, we’ve shown that two weeks of treatment with paracetamol increases blood pressure in patients who have hypertension (high blood pressure).”

Lead investigator Dr Iain MacIntyre, a consultant in clinical pharmacology and nephrology at NHS Lothian, added, “This is not about short-term use of paracetamol for headaches or fever, which is, of course, fine – but it does indicate a newly discovered risk for people who take it regularly over the longer term, usually for chronic pain.”

The study involved 110 patients with a history of high blood pressure who were either prescribed 1g of paracetamol four times a day or a placebo for two weeks each. The findings revealed a significant increase in blood pressure among those taking the painkiller compared to those taking the placebo, emphasizing the potential negative impact of long-term paracetamol use on blood pressure levels.

Dr Richard Francis, head of research at the Stroke Association, emphasized the significance of the study, stating, “High blood pressure is the single biggest risk factor for stroke. This new and robust study adds to previous research and suggests regular paracetamol causes blood pressure to quickly increase in people who are already at risk of stroke and heart attacks. It’s therefore important that doctors regularly review and weigh up the risks and benefits of prescribing paracetamol.”

Given these findings, it is crucial for healthcare professionals and patients to thoroughly evaluate the risks and benefits of long-term paracetamol use in individuals with high blood pressure. It is also essential for individuals taking paracetamol regularly for chronic pain to be aware of the potential risks associated with its prolonged use.