68% more cardiovascular risk: should you stop taking paracetamol for pain relief?

If you’ve opened this article clutching your box of Doliprane, Efferalgan, or Dafalgan in panic, breathe out. The world’s favorite painkiller is yet again under the microscope, and this time, it’s accused of stirring up cardiovascular trouble—and more. Headlines are screaming about paracetamol being more dangerous than previously thought. But before you launch your remaining tablets into the nearest trash can, let’s separate the alarm from the actual facts, with a few flashes of insight (and possibly a dash of common sense).

What set off the alarm bells?

Recently, a scientific study published in a rheumatology journal asked: is paracetamol more dangerous than we thought? The authors cited up to a 68% increase in cardiovascular events, along with a higher risk of digestive issues, reduced kidney filtration, and a more than doubled mortality rate associated with long-term use. These are the kinds of numbers that send chills down anyone’s spine—and might make you contemplate enduring your next headache unmedicated.

With billions (yes, billions!) of paracetamol tablets sold in France each year, these claims have, naturally, made waves. Should consumers really worry that their trusted medication is quietly poisoning them? Should everyone suddenly ditch paracetamol for the next available painkiller?

Looking beyond the scary headlines

Not so fast. According to the Centre belge d’information pharmacothérapeutique—a thoroughly independent organization with a reputation for no-nonsense analysis—paracetamol remains a “first-choice” pain reliever. The recent wave of accusations, the centre points out, emerges from hypotheses, not proven facts. In other words, the much-discussed study only poses possibilities; there is no solid proof that the health issues found in paracetamol-users are all side effects of the drug itself.

To illustrate: imagine a study finding that people who visit doctors are sicker. No one in their right mind would accuse doctors of making patients ill! People visit doctors precisely because they are unwell. If you swap “go to the doctor” for “take paracetamol,” you see the interpretive trap. Studies might observe that paracetamol users have more health problems, but it’s not necessarily the pill’s fault—people reach for paracetamol because they already have health issues.

This matters, because paracetamol is often recommended precisely in situations when other painkillers are riskier—think stomach troubles or existing cardiovascular risk. If you have gastrointestinal problems, paracetamol is actually preferable. Got heart concerns? Best to steer clear of anti-inflammatories like ibuprofen and stick with paracetamol. A classic catch-22—its widespread use among the unwell may distort studies looking to pin health issues on the drug itself.

Paracetamol: champ or chump?

This doesn’t mean the mighty paracetamol is a miracle cure without flaws. Some pains stubbornly ignore its presence. Last year, an eye-opening study revealed its modest effect—at best—on certain types of back pain, surprising even medical professionals. So, even our old friend has shadowy corners left to explore, especially when it comes to the impact of very long-term use.

Despite the recent fuss, paracetamol is widely (and rightly) considered the safest option among common painkillers, especially when compared with anti-inflammatories like ibuprofen (the likes of Nurofen, Advil) or good old aspirin. But could its very reputation have led people to pop it a bit too casually? Maybe. Even so, it’s crucial to remember paracetamol is still a medication, with its own set of recognized side effects. They’re rare, yes, but can be severe—especially for the liver in case of overdose. And the threshold for too much? Surprisingly easy to reach if you’re not careful.

• Don’t exceed the recommended dose. (More is not merrier!)
• Keep track of all medicines you’re taking—paracetamol hides everywhere under various brand names.
• If your pain persists or you need long-term relief, speak to a healthcare professional. Paracetamol isn’t a permanent fix.

So, should you stop taking paracetamol?

In light of current knowledge, it would be a mistake to abandon paracetamol in favor of other painkillers across the board. The alarmist study, while making headlines, only offers hypotheses—not certainties. The core problems found among paracetamol users may well reflect the underlying health issues these people already have, not direct effects of the drug itself.

Conclusion? Paracetamol maintains its place as a trusted pain reliever and fever reducer in many situations. But don’t treat it like candy: follow recommended dosages, respect its limits, and consult a professional for ongoing needs. That ache in your head can still meet its match—just wield your painkiller wisely.

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David Miller

David Miller is an entertainment expert with a passion for film, music, and series. With eight years in cultural criticism, he takes you behind the scenes of productions and studios. His energetic style guides you to the next big releases and trending sensations.