Some individuals over 65 may experience medical complications from using a common pain reliever, according to a study.

Recent studies suggest that a widely used medication may not be secure for all individuals.

Tylenol, also known as acetaminophen, is a widely used pain reliever and fever reducer that is commonly found in combination with other medications in cold and flu remedies.

An analysis of the safety of the drug in older individuals was conducted by a U.K.-based study, which was published in Arthritis Care & Research, the official journal of the American College of Rheumatology.

From 1998 to 2018, the researchers analyzed data from over 180,000 acetaminophen users and 400,000 non-users.

The research showed that taking acetaminophen, also known as paracetamol, increased the likelihood of severe health problems.

Peptic ulcer bleeding, uncomplicated peptic-ulcers, lower gastrointestinal bleeding, heart failure, hypertension, and chronic kidney disease are all conditions that can cause gastrointestinal bleeding.

Professor Weiya Zhang, PhD, advised caution when considering long-term use of the drug, as stated in a University of Nottingham press release sent to Planet Chronicle Digital.

Paracetamol has been recommended as the first-line drug treatment for osteoarthritis by many treatment guidelines, especially for older people who are at higher risk of drug-related complications, due to its perceived safety.

"Before concluding that paracetamol is an effective painkiller for long-term conditions in older people, more research is required to confirm our findings."

Planet Chronicle Digital reported Dr. Marc Siegel's reaction.

The doctor stated that although it is widely believed that acetaminophen does not cause GI bleeding or worsening kidney disease, there is a growing belief that this may not be entirely accurate.

"Yes, over-the-counter medications are still medications."

According to Siegel, there is evidence suggesting that acetaminophen "modulates the same cyclooxygenase-related pathways" as anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen, which can "increase adverse GI side effects."

The U.K. study, the doctor noted, has limitations due to being observational and not being able to track over-the-counter medications, which were not tracked.

Some users had additional contributing factors and behaviors, such as smoking and obesity, which could have impacted their results.

"Although we are aware that all long-term medications have side effects, we cannot predict them with certainty. Therefore, we conduct post-market analysis and re-evaluate medications to better understand their potential side effects."

Acetaminophen is known for its liver toxicity and other side effects, as this study suggests.

Kenvue, Inc., the maker of Tylenol, was contacted by Planet Chronicle Digital for comment on the study.

Risks for older adults

Dr. Macie P. Smith, a gerontologist in South Carolina, responded to the study findings.

She informed Planet Chronicle Digital that she was pleased that someone was discussing the side effects of specific medications and how they disproportionately affect individuals over the age of 65.

Several medications are not recommended for the older adult population, Smith said.

As people age, their bodies and brains change, so just because they could tolerate medications at a younger age does not mean they can tolerate the same medications at an older age.

According to Smith, complications such as GI bleeding, hypertension, and kidney disease can increase the risk of stroke, Alzheimer's disease, dementia, and even premature death.

It is advisable for older adults to consult with their primary care doctor before taking any over-the-counter medications, as acetaminophen is present in cold and flu medications and in creams and ointments.

"Discussing medication or drug use with a doctor is crucial for geriatric patients, as geriatrics is a specialized practice and requires specialized care."

Smith advised that older adults should utilize only one pharmacy to allow the pharmacist to access their "medication history" record.

"I would recommend that older adults consult with their primary care doctor before taking any over-the-counter medications."

The pharmacist can easily and quickly check for medication side effects and possible interactions between prescription and OTC medications for individuals over the age of 65 who come in for over-the-counter medications, she stated.

For those 65 and older, it is important to take acetaminophen with caution and under the guidance of a doctor.

Smith advised elderly people and their caregivers to carefully read the crucial details that accompany any medication.

She advised adding, 'Don't hesitate to speak to the pharmacist and/or your doctor about the risks and benefits, then make an informed decision and choose well.'

Planet Chronicle Digital reached out to a number of drug manufacturers for comment.