Is it safe to take paracetamol every day?

By Linda Caddick, Registered Pharmacist, Arthritis Assist 

Last month, we looked at the benefits and risks of taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) long term. This month, we’re answering another question we regularly get through Arthritis Assist: Is it safe to take paracetamol every day?

For many people living with arthritis, paracetamol is a familiar part of managing pain. It’s readily available, relatively inexpensive and often considered a safer option than other pain medicines. But what if you’re taking it regularly, perhaps for months or years? 

Paracetamol was once commonly recommended as a first-choice medicine for osteoarthritis. Research has since shown that NSAIDs are generally more effective for osteoarthritis pain.

However, NSAIDs aren’t suitable for everyone. Other health conditions, side effects or interactions with medicines may make them inappropriate. For some people, paracetamol remains a useful option. Its pain relief is often modest, but that can still make a difference to everyday life. 

Paracetamol has traditionally been viewed as relatively safe. More recent research has raised questions about possible effects with long-term use, although findings are not always consistent.

Blood pressure: Some studies suggest that taking paracetamol regularly may cause a small rise in blood pressure. This may be particularly important for people who already have high blood pressure or heart problems.

Stomach and gut bleeding: Research has also identified a possible increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding with long-term use, particularly when paracetamol is taken alongside NSAIDs.

It’s important to keep these findings in perspective. Many people take paracetamol regularly without serious problems. The aim is not to create fear, but to understand the benefits and risks. 

Warning signs of bleeding in the stomach or intestines include black, tar-like stools; blood in your stools; vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds; unusual weakness; or shortness of breath. Seek urgent medical attention if these symptoms occur. 

Take paracetamol according to the dose recommended for you. Taking too much can cause serious liver damage.

Check the ingredients of other medicines you take. Some cold and flu products and combination pain medicines also contain paracetamol, making it possible to take more than intended.

Higher-strength products such as Panadol Osteo have different dosing instructions from standard paracetamol tablets. Always read the packaging or ask your pharmacist.

If you take paracetamol every day, it’s worth checking with your GP or pharmacist that the dose is appropriate and that it’s still helping. 

Medicines play an important role, but they’re 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.

If paracetamol is helping you manage your pain, don’t stop it simply because you’ve read about potential risks. Instead, talk with your GP or pharmacist about whether it remains a suitable option for you.

Our Arthritis Assist team can help you prepare questions for your healthcare team and explore practical ways to manage arthritis pain.  

Call us on 0800 663 463 or contact us