The drug 'taken for every headache and runny nose' can silently damage the liver

Over-the-counter drugs used by millions of people have been linked to increased cases of liver damage.

A painkiller found in many home medicine cabinets could be silently damaging the liver, a leading pharmacist has warned.

Paracetamol – which many people take daily to treat everything from headaches to fevers – is safe when taken correctly. But exceeding the recommended dose can cause permanent liver damage, said pharmacist Dipar Kamdar, a PhD student at Kingston University in the UK, according to the Daily Mail.

There is a medicine that can silently damage the liver - Photo: AI

Even a small overdose or combined with alcohol can increase the risk of serious harm, so always follow the recommended dose and ask your doctor if you need regular pain relief.

Pharmacist Kamdar explains that the danger comes from the way the liver processes paracetamol. As it breaks down the drug, it creates a toxic byproduct called NAPQI. Normally, this is neutralized by a protective substance in the body called glutathione. But at high doses, the liver can become overloaded – leading to potentially life-threatening damage.

The British Liver Trust says 90% of liver disease cases can be prevented by making lifestyle changes.

The most common liver disease is fatty liver - an excessive buildup of fat in the liver that can cause inflammation.

Over time, this can lead to scarring that limits liver function. If left untreated, it can lead to cirrhosis. As the liver fails, complications can occur, which can be fatal.

90% of liver disease cases can be prevented by changing lifestyle - Photo: AI

Unhealthy diet is the cause of fatty liver

Experts also warn that an unhealthy diet is the main cause of fatty liver.

Pharmacist Kamdar recommends avoiding foods high in saturated fat, such as red meat, fried foods and processed snacks.

Conversely, a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, and fish may reduce liver fat and improve associated risk factors such as high blood sugar and cholesterol.

Other risk factors include lack of exercise, smoking and alcohol consumption.

Pharmacist Kamdar said: You can protect your liver by drinking alcohol in moderation, quitting smoking, using medication responsibly, eating a balanced diet, exercising and drinking enough water, according to the Daily Mail.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/loai-thuoc-he-nhuc-dau-so-mui-la-uong-co-the-am-tham-lam-hong-gan-185250629215438213.htm