Arthritis NZ pharmacist outlines risks of daily paracetamol use

Arthritis NZ advises people who take paracetamol every day to check with their GP or pharmacist that the dose is appropriate and still helping.

The advice comes from Linda Caddick, a registered pharmacist with Arthritis Assist. It answers a question the service regularly gets: is it safe to take paracetamol daily?

Does paracetamol help arthritis pain?

Paracetamol was once commonly recommended as a first-choice medicine for osteoarthritis, according to Arthritis NZ. Research since then has shown that non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are generally more effective for osteoarthritis pain.

NSAIDs are not suitable for everyone. Other health conditions, side effects or interactions with medicines may rule them out. For some people, paracetamol is still a useful option, and its pain relief, though often modest, can make a difference to everyday life.

What research says about long-term use

Paracetamol has traditionally been viewed as relatively safe. Arthritis NZ notes that more recent research has raised questions about long-term use, although findings are not always consistent.

Some studies suggest regular paracetamol may cause a small rise in blood pressure. That may matter most for people who already have high blood pressure or heart problems.

Research has also identified a possible increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding with long-term use. The risk appears particularly when paracetamol is taken alongside NSAIDs.

The article stresses that many people take paracetamol regularly without serious problems. Its aim is to explain the benefits and risks, not to create fear.

Warning signs of bleeding

Arthritis NZ lists the warning signs of bleeding in the stomach or intestines. They are black, tar-like stools, blood in the stools, vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds, unusual weakness, and shortness of breath. Anyone with these symptoms should seek urgent medical attention.

Paracetamol should be taken at the dose recommended for the person. Taking too much can cause serious liver damage.

It is worth checking the ingredients of other medicines too. Some cold and flu products and combination pain medicines also contain paracetamol, so it is possible to take more than intended.

Higher-strength products have different dosing instructions from standard paracetamol tablets. The article advises reading the packaging or asking a pharmacist.

Medicines are only one part of managing arthritis pain. Learning about your condition, building self-management skills, staying active in ways that work for you and finding practical strategies for everyday life can all help, according to the organisation.

People who find paracetamol is helping should not stop it just because they have read about possible risks. Instead, the article suggests talking with a GP or pharmacist about whether it is still a suitable option.

The Arthritis Assist team can help people prepare questions for their healthcare team and explore practical ways to manage arthritis pain. The number to call is 0800 663 463.