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When used according to the directions, over -the -counter pain drugs (OTC) As tylenol can be incredibly useful for treating the ills, pain and symptoms that accompany certain diseases. Of course, like any other drug, there are still potentially risky side effects; In this case, acetaminophen, this active ingredient class of the drug, is generally associated with liver problems . But now, new research has revealed that drugs like Tylenol could also change the cardiac function when taken at certain doses, possibly modifying our understanding of the quantity that could be considered safe.

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The last comes from a study presented for the first time in American physiological society Last week, which used a mouse model to examine the effects of acetaminophen at different doses. The researchers compared mice ingesting water dosed with 500 mg of the drug - or the same quantity in an extra -resistant tylenol tablet - while a control group received normal water.

The team then compared the two groups after a week. They found that there were significant changes in cardiac function, including energy production, the use of antioxidants and damaged protein degradation in mice that have drunk water dosed with acetaminophen , according to the press release. Overall, the researchers said that more than 20 signaling paths were affected, far exceeding both or three in which they were initially expected.

"We were surprised by the results because we predicted that acetaminophen, when used at these concentrations, would have minimal effects on the heart" " Gabriela Del Toro Rivera , the first author of the study, said Medical news today . "While the existing literature mainly combines the overuse of acetaminophen with liver lesions, our research suggests that acetaminophen can influence tissues beyond the liver."

Researchers have concluded that the results have highlighted new questions about how long -term use of higher doses of commonly used drug could affect heart health. Other experts have agreed that the implications could change certain basic understanding.

"The results indicate that even in moderate doses considered safe for use, acetaminophen can have significant effects on the signaling pathways in the heart tissue". Gréé Tadwalkar , MD, a consultant cardiologist certified by the Board of Directors, told Medical News Today. "This suggests that commonly used pain relievers may not be as benign as before, especially when used regularly over time."

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It is not the only time that research has established a link between drugs such as tylenol and heart health. In a 2022 study Published in the journal Traffic , 110 patients with high blood pressure were assigned to random to take a placebo or 1,000 mg of acetaminophen four times a day over two weeks, Harvard Health reported. The group without control was then passed to a placebo, how the researchers noticed that those who took the drug had seen their blood pressure increase an average of five points.

However, Del Toro Rivera noted that there were still certain limits to their results, including that the results generated in mice may not be brought to humans. However, she added that it justified additional tests and could help doctors better assess the needs of patients.

"The results concerning the effects of acetaminophen on the heart have the potential to improve doctor-patient communication by allowing more personalized recommendations, informed decision-making and proactive management of potential risks associated with its use," said -Ali said. "The use of acetaminophen for the shortest duration and the lowest appropriate dose for an individual's disease is probably recommended."

Best Life offers the most up -to -date information for high -level experts, new research and health agencies, but our content is not supposed to replace professional advice. Regarding the medication you take or any other health issue you have, always consult your health care provider directly.