Study warns of 'staggered overdose' danger

New research published today warns of the health risk posed by taking slightly too much paracetamol over a long period of time.

The cumulative effect of taking paracetamol over many weeks and months to alleviate chronic pain can lead to a "staggered overdose" if the patient exceeds the recommended dose.

While the term 'overdose' is normally associated with someone who has taken a large amount of tablets in one go, lead researcher Dr Kenneth Simpson found that taking too much paracetamol over a long period of time could actually pose more danger to a person's health.

"Staggered overdose patients were more likely to have liver and brain problems, require kidney dialysis or help with breathing and were at a greater risk of dying than people who had taken single overdoses," he said.

According to the NHS, side effects from taking paracetamol can include rashes, blood disorders, low blood pressure and liver and kidney damage.  ADNFCR-554-ID-801219282-ADNFCR

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