the Risks of Long-Term Use of Panadol: What You Need to Know

Q: the Risks of Long-Term Use of Panadol: What You Need to Know

Hello： The ingredients of Panadol Extra Strength Tablets are as follows： 1. <br>Acetaminophen： Its primary function is pain relief, with few side effects; however, overdose can cause liver damage. <br>2. <br>Terpin： Its main function is to relieve cough and expel phlegm, with few

Tylenol medication issues?

Hello: The instruction manual for Panadol Extra Strength tablets indicates that the medication should not be taken for more than 7 days.
I would like to ask: 1.
What harm could occur to the body if taken continuously for 14 days? 2.
If taken continuously for 14 days, should one go to the hospital for an examination? Which department should be consulted? What tests should be performed? Thank you for your clarification.

A-Du, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/05/07

Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine

Hello: The ingredients of Panadol Extra Strength Tablets are as follows: 1.
Acetaminophen: Its primary function is pain relief, with few side effects; however, overdose can cause liver damage.
2.
Terpin: Its main function is to relieve cough and expel phlegm, with few side effects; overdose may lead to nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
3.
Caffeine: Its primary function is to alleviate general fatigue and weakness, with common side effects including insomnia and palpitations.
4.
Noscapine: Its main function is cough suppression, with common side effects including drowsiness, nausea, headache, and dizziness.
5.
Phenylephrine: Its primary function is to relieve nasal congestion and rhinitis, with common side effects including palpitations, increased blood pressure, headache, nausea, and vomiting.
6.
Ascorbic acid: Vitamin C, with few side effects.
If you take the medication as directed in the instructions, without taking multiple tablets at once or multiple times a day, you should not experience an overdose.
However, if taken long-term, there may be concerns about the potential side effects mentioned above; if they occur, it is advisable to discontinue use.
Additionally, the reason the instructions state that this medication should not be taken for more than 7 days is that if symptoms persist beyond 7 days, it is recommended to seek medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause of the discomfort.
As for which specialty to consult, it should be based on the individual's specific symptoms; if unsure, a family medicine physician is a good option.

Reply Date: 2022/05/07

More Info

When considering the long-term use of Panadol (also known as paracetamol or acetaminophen), it is essential to understand both its therapeutic benefits and potential risks. Panadol is widely used for pain relief and fever reduction, making it a common choice for various conditions, including headaches, muscle aches, arthritis, backaches, toothaches, colds, and fevers. However, the guidelines recommend that it should not be taken for more than seven consecutive days without medical supervision.

1. Risks of Continuous Use Beyond Recommended Duration
Taking Panadol continuously for 14 days can pose several risks, primarily related to liver health. Acetaminophen is metabolized in the liver, and excessive or prolonged use can lead to liver damage or even acute liver failure. The risk is particularly heightened if the total daily dose exceeds the recommended limit, which is generally 4,000 mg for adults. Chronic use can also lead to a condition known as hepatotoxicity, where the liver becomes damaged due to the accumulation of toxic metabolites.

In addition to liver damage, long-term use of Panadol can mask underlying health issues. For instance, if you are relying on this medication to manage chronic pain, it may prevent you from seeking appropriate medical treatment for the underlying cause of that pain. This can lead to a delay in diagnosis and treatment of potentially serious conditions.

2. When to Seek Medical Attention
If you have been taking Panadol for 14 consecutive days, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. You should not wait for symptoms to worsen before seeking help. It is essential to discuss your medication use with your doctor, especially if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Persistent abdominal pain, particularly in the upper right quadrant (where the liver is located)
- Nausea or vomiting
- Unusual fatigue or weakness
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
- Dark urine or pale stools

3. Recommended Medical Consultations and Tests
When you visit a healthcare provider, it is advisable to see a primary care physician or a gastroenterologist, as they specialize in liver health. During your appointment, the doctor will likely conduct a thorough medical history and physical examination. They may also recommend the following tests:
- Liver Function Tests (LFTs): These blood tests measure the levels of liver enzymes and other substances to assess liver health and function.

- Complete Blood Count (CBC): This test can help identify any underlying infections or other health issues.

- Ultrasound of the Abdomen: This imaging test can help visualize the liver and detect any abnormalities.

Conclusion
In summary, while Panadol is a safe and effective medication when used as directed, long-term use beyond the recommended duration can lead to significant health risks, particularly concerning liver function. If you find yourself needing to use Panadol for more than seven days, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional to evaluate your symptoms and consider alternative pain management strategies. Regular monitoring and appropriate medical interventions can help mitigate the risks associated with prolonged use of this medication. Always prioritize open communication with your healthcare provider regarding any medications you are taking and any concerns you may have about their effects on your health.

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