Acetaminophen, asthma and COPD: What you need to know before it’s too late

 by: Dena Schmidt, staff writer | August 16, 2024

(NaturalHealth365)   A new study published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine has uncovered a disturbing connection between prenatal acetaminophen use and an increased risk of asthma and wheezing in children.  This massive research effort, analyzing data from over 330,000 women, adds fuel to the growing fire of concerns surrounding acetaminophen use during pregnancy.

But it’s not just unborn babies at risk.  The findings echo earlier studies that raised red flags about respiratory dangers for adults who frequently pop these common pills.  Acetaminophen, known internationally as paracetamol and found in household names like Tylenol, might not be the harmless cure-all many still think.

What you need to know about acetaminophen and respiratory health

An earlier assessment of data from the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, conducted in Nottingham, England, tracked 13,500 U.S. adults and determined that frequent use of acetaminophen can lead to a higher risk of asthma and COPD.  COPD, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, is a potentially fatal progressive obstructive lung disease.

The participants had submitted information regarding their use of acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and aspirin between 1988 and 1994.  While other drugs were considered, it was determined that the risks related to COPD, asthma, and overall lung functioning were the highest in those who used acetaminophen the most frequently.  Acetaminophen can cause these complications to lung health when used daily or regularly (6 to 29 times per month).

The researchers believe that high levels of acetaminophen in the bloodstream lower the levels of a key lung antioxidant called glutathione.  As a result, acetaminophen users develop a higher risk of lung tissue damage due to depleted glutathione levels.

This, in turn, puts them at a higher risk for a range of respiratory diseases.  The findings suggest that oxidative processes play a role in the onset and pathogenesis of COPD and asthma.

Daily acetaminophen use increases asthma and COPD risk by over 70 percent

These results, along with past research findings, have led to the belief that acetaminophen exacerbates the onset, progression, and severity of asthma and other lung conditions.  Again, there was no discernible association between ibuprofen or aspirin use and lung issues like COPD and asthma.

In all, daily acetaminophen users were a stunning 72 percent more likely to have COPD and 75 percent more likely to have asthma.  Markers for lung functioning were impaired across the boards for acetaminophen users.  And patients using acetaminophen 6 to 29 times per month were 40 percent more likely to have asthma.

Other acetaminophen side effects – including liver damage

In addition to Tylenol, acetaminophen is an active ingredient in over 600 other prescription and over-the-counter medicines.  For example, this substance is found in many cold medications and cough suppressants.

Past research focused on acetaminophen side effects has linked excessive use of the drug with a higher potential for liver damage.  An assessment of 22 U.S. medical centers by the Acute Liver Failure Study Group regarding acetaminophen use found that acetaminophen hepatotoxicity far exceeded other causes of liver failure.

Other side effects of acetaminophen include nausea, blood in the urine or stool, fever, rash, sudden fatigue, bruising, and sore mouth.

Explore nature’s medicine cabinet for pain relief

To avoid acetaminophen side effects, consider natural alternatives for pain relief, such as:

1. An anti-inflammatory diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants
2. Turmeric – known for its potent anti-inflammatory properties
3. Chili pepper (capsaicin) for topical pain relief
4. Essential oils like lavender, peppermint, or eucalyptus
5. White willow bark, a natural source of salicin
6. Ginger, which can help reduce inflammation and pain
7. Acupuncture or acupressure for various types of pain
8. Magnesium supplements to help relax muscles and reduce pain
9. Boswellia, an herb with anti-inflammatory effects
10. CBD oil, derived from hemp, for its potential pain-relieving properties
11. Self-massage or massage done by a trained professional

Even a light exercise routine combined with lots of stretching can go a long way toward eliminating minor aches and pains.  Yoga and tai chi are particularly beneficial for improving flexibility and reducing chronic pain.  Additionally, mindfulness meditation and deep breathing exercises can help manage pain perception.

Bottom line:  For chronic pain situations – know that there are many natural ways to relieve pain without the need for toxic medications.  Always consult with a holistic healthcare professional before starting any new pain management routine, especially for chronic conditions.

Sources for this article include:

NIH.gov
ATSJournals.org
LifeExtension.com
Springer.com
RupertHealth.com