Paracetamol has new side effects, says studies: How to avoid medication overuse?

Berlin: New side effects of overconsumption of paracetamol, which is the most prescribed painkiller in the world, have been discovered. The 2023 STADA Health report warns against the unchecked use of paracetamol. In Germany, a significant increase in revenue has been noted in the sale of painkillers every year. As per reports, one in four persons consume painkillers at least once a week.
From headaches to fever, paracetamols are prescribed by health practitioners. So, paracetamol, which is the most used painkiller around the world, is often stored in all households. However, studies say that overconsumption of paracetamols can lead to acidification. The experts at the Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices have reportedly discovered metabolic acidosis as a major side effect of paracetamol. This causes hyperacidification of blood. Metabolic acidosis could lead to severe reactions in kidney patients as well.

How to prevent such potential addictions
If you have the habit of turning to particular drugs like paracetamol at the mere smell of symptoms like headaches or random pains, you might need expert help to keep it in check. Medication overuse can also cause issues like 'medication overuse headaches,' according to the Mayo Clinic. Experts don't know yet why such conditions occur but say that they can cause a history of lifelong headaches and substance use disorders.
You should contact your doctor if you are taking a medicine more than twice a week and seek help to limit them. You should also take care to prevent potential triggers that generally lead to medicine overuse, get enough sleep, eat your meals regularly, stay hydrated, quit smoking, and take steps to reduce stress and manage the condition better.
(With inputs from Onmanorama Staff)