New research conducted on mice indicates that acetaminophen, a common pain relief medication and the active ingredient in Tylenol, may interfere with heart pathways involved in energy production, antioxidants, and protein breakdown. The study reveals that even standard adult dosages of acetaminophen, previously deemed safe, could lead to detrimental changes in heart tissue. These findings contribute to the increasing scrutiny regarding the broad spectrum of potential side effects associated with this widely used drug.
In the study with mice, researchers supplied water containing acetaminophen at a dosage corresponding to 500 mgs daily for a typical adult. Within a week, notable alterations were detected in the protein levels linked to key biochemical pathways essential for cardiac function. These pathways are involved in energy generation, antioxidant processes, and the degradation of impaired proteins.
The findings indicate that acetaminophen, even at doses generally deemed safe for humans, can interfere with multiple signaling pathways in the heart. While researchers anticipated alterations in two to three pathways, the study revealed that more than 20 different pathways were impacted. Previously, acetaminophen was considered to have a low risk of adverse side effects when used according to guidelines.
The extended use of acetaminophen at medium to high doses may cause cardiac problems due to oxidative stress or toxin buildup from the drug’s breakdown, potentially overloading the body’s detox systems. The observed alterations in the study suggest increased stress and mitochondrial dysfunction in the hearts of mice treated with acetaminophen.
This research contributes to our knowledge of acetaminophen’s effects, which are known to include risks of gastrointestinal issues, elevated blood pressure, and liver toxicity with high dosages. The study emphasizes the significance of monitoring both the dosage and duration of use, as long-term consumption at medium to high levels could present more severe risks compared to occasional or low-dose use.
To view the original scientific study click below:
Acetaminophen May Be Less Heart-safe than Previously Thought
