Latest news with #Paracetamol
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Common supplements and medications could cause liver damage, studies show
As cases of drug-induced liver injury (DILI) are on the rise, experts are warning of the hidden dangers associated with some common medications and supplements. Statistics show that DILI, also known as toxic hepatitis or hepatotoxicity — which is known to be a significant cause of acute liver failure — has been growing in Western countries since the 1960s. Around one-fifth of the total population who are prescribed medications will experience DILI, according to recent research published in the journal Toxicology Reports. Common Daily Vitamin Could Slow Biological Aging, Major Study Suggests Potential triggers of liver injury include herbal products, dietary supplements and medications, the study found. Those with pre-existing liver conditions and nutritional deficiencies are at a higher risk, as are pregnant women. Read On The Fox News App One of the liver's main functions is to break down substances taken orally, including supplements and medications, according to the American College of Gastroenterology (ACG). For some people, the process of metabolizing these substances can be slower, increasing the risk of liver damage. Colorectal Cancer Risk Reduced By This Common Vitamin, Study Suggests Even medications that have been tested for safety and approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) can potentially cause liver injury in rare cases, stated the ACG. Common symptoms of liver disease include nausea, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, generalized itching, dark urine and jaundice, although some people may notice no signs, per the above source. Alcohol Drives Up Liver Transplant Demand In Young People The recent study in Toxicology Reports identified several drugs that are most likely to cause liver injury. Paracetamol (acetaminophen), a common over-the-counter pain reliever Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which are often used to treat headaches, fever and chronic inflammatory disorders Aspirin, a common over-the-counter medication used as a fever-reducer, pain reliever and blood thinner Nimesulide, an NSAID used to relieve pain and reduce fever Methotrexate, an antimetabolite medication that is used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, lymphoma, leukemia and other cancers Corticosteroids, which are used to treat conditions involving inflammation or overactive immune systems Isoniazid, a first-line treatment for tuberculosis Tetracyclines, a class of antibiotics that treat multiple types of bacterial infections Halothane, which is used as a general anaesthetic during surgical procedures Medications aren't the only agents that can cause drug-induced liver injuries. Dr. Marc Siegel, Fox News senior medical analyst, spoke with Fox News Digital about the risks of herbal and dietary supplements (HDS) affecting the liver. "The biggest problem with herbal supplements is that the amount you are taking of active chemicals isn't strictly regulated, so you don't know exactly what you are getting," he said. "And since several of the supplements are metabolized through the liver, there is now an increasing incidence of liver toxicity in users." Cases of DILI linked to herbal or dietary supplements have nearly tripled between 2004 and 2014, according to a 2024 study published in JAMA Network Open. The researchers identified the following most commonly used botanical products known for potential liver toxicity. Turmeric, a common spice added to foods Green tea Ashwagandha, an herb used for stress and anxiety Garcinia cambogia, a popular weight-loss supplement Red yeast rice, which is said to help lower cholesterol levels Black cohosh, a dietary supplement used to relieve menopause symptoms It is estimated that at least 15.6 million U.S. adults have used at least one of these six botanical products within the past 30 days. Common Supplement Could Help You Live Longer, Research Suggests "The most commonly implicated botanical products in the DILIN (Drug-Induced Liver Injury Network) include turmeric, kratom, green tea extract and Garcinia cambogia, with potentially severe and even fatal liver injury," the study stated. Drug-induced liver injury caused by HDS can be severe or even fatal, leading to death or liver transplantation, the researchers noted. Fox News' Siegel also warned against the potential liver-related risks of some of these named supplements. "Turmeric is a natural anti-inflammatory and may be useful in small doses, but can be toxic in large doses," he cautioned. "Garcinia cambogia is very popular, especially as a weight-loss agent, but there is no real evidence that it actually works, and there is no reason to take it, especially with the new GLP-1 drugs." While red yeast rice has cholesterol-lowering statin-type properties, Siegel cautioned that the amount of active chemicals isn't as strictly regulated as approved medications. "I find it useful in some patients who are reluctant to start statins and are looking for a more natural alternative, but I must strictly monitor the amount taken and the effect on the liver," he said. Regarding green tea, Siegel noted that it does have antioxidant properties and can be useful to consume as a beverage (though it has a lot of caffeine) — "but there is no reason whatsoever to take more of it in an extract, where it can be toxic." Click Here To Sign Up For Our Health Newsletter The FDA states on its website that it does regulate dietary supplement products and dietary ingredients, but under "a different set of regulations than those covering 'conventional' foods and drug products." "Manufacturers and distributors of dietary supplements and dietary ingredients are prohibited from marketing products that are adulterated or misbranded," the agency says. "That means that these firms are responsible for evaluating the safety and labeling of their products before marketing to ensure that they meet all the requirements of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act as amended by DSHEA and FDA regulations." For more Health articles, visit Fox News Digital reached out to several researchers and the FDA regarding the rise in drug- and HSD-related liver article source: Common supplements and medications could cause liver damage, studies show
The Star
20-05-2025
- Health
- The Star
Powerful earthquake in Myanmar has to date killed 3,728 people, injured 5,104, and left 79 people missing
YANGON: As of Monday (May 19), the extremely strong earthquake that struck Myanmar on March 28 has killed 3,728 people, injured 5,104, and left 79 people missing in the six regions/states that were severely affected. Myanmar Fire Brigade and search and rescue teams from home and abroad are conducting timely search and rescue operations in the areas where they are needed. As of Monday, 653 survivors have been rescued and 805 dead have been recovered. Local volunteers are donating money and goods to the affected people, as well as foreign countries, organisations, and volunteers. On May 16, 20 bags of Paracetamol (weighing 0.285 tons) were donated by the Embassy of India and on May 19, 19 bags of ointments and household medicines (weighing 0.279 tons) donated by the Embassy of India arrived at Yangon International Airport. The medicines and goods donated by India will be transferred to the Ministry of Health for use in healthcare activities. - Eleven Media/ANN
Time of India
17-05-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Chemists' org warns against Centre's plan to expand OTC drug list
1 2 Shillong: The All India Organisation of Chemists and Druggists has cautioned against the Centre's proposal to classify more medicines as over-the-counter (OTC) products, maintaining that this would have harmful effects on the health of the people. In a statement issued on Friday, the Meghalaya Healthcare Association , which is a unit of the AIOCD, cautioned the potentially dangerous consequences of this move and pointed out that medicines, even those used routinely, require expert supervision to avoid harmful effects. "Paracetamol is widely used as a pain reliever, but an overdose can cause serious liver and kidney damage," David Kharsati, president of the Association said in the statement and also highlighted the risks of diclofenac, a common anti-inflammatory drug available in potassium and sodium forms. "These two variants must be prescribed carefully, especially for patients with blood pressure issues. Interchanging them without proper guidance can worsen the condition," he said. He added while the govt may aim to simplify access, expanding the OTC list could disrupt the existing supply chain and lead to confusion among consumers. The AIOCD, which represents around 12.5 lakh chemists across India, also raised concerns about the growing financial strain on local pharmacies and cited the rise of online pharmacies and govt-supported schemes like Jan Aushadhi and Dawa India as major factors behind declining business margins.
Daily Mirror
15-05-2025
- Health
- Daily Mirror
Symptoms of contagious bug 'appear between 12 hours and eight days'
As the number of norovirus cases remain high, the public has been urged to avoid hospitals and care homes if experiencing symptoms Norovirus continues to spread across the UK, with case continuing to be high. For some months now, the public has been asked to help to try to curb the spread by avoiding hospitals and care homes if they are showing symptoms such as vomiting, nausea and diarrhoea. As with all bugs like this, the best method of stopping its spread is not to put others needlessly at risk to catch it. Niamh McMillan, pharmacy superintendent at Superdrug, shared expert advice on spotting early signs and staying protected, saying: "Symptoms of Norovirus can include severe nausea, diarrhoea, stomach cramps and vomiting. Norovirus is the most common type of virus which causes gastroenteritis, an inflammation of the stomach and intestines. Norovirus is also referred to as the 'winter vomiting bug' due to its prevalence during the colder months, however it can be caught at any time of the year. "Typically the first signs of norovirus will appear between 12 hours to eight days. Ongoing diarrhoea and vomiting are the most common signs, however you may also experience headaches and lightheadedness." How to minimise the spread of norovirus While it's difficult to prevent catching norovirus, there are some small steps you can take to minimise the chances and also improve symptoms. Keep your distance Niamh explained: "Norovirus can be transmitted by coming into contact with someone suffering from the virus, contaminated surfaces and also food and water so try and keep areas around you clean and disinfected. A person suffering from norovirus is most contagious from the moment they start feeling to at least three days after recovery." Wash hands thoroughly She emphasised the importance of hygiene, saying: "Don't underestimate the benefit of washing your hands thoroughly with antibacterial soap, for at least 20 seconds. This is particularly important if you've been in public areas, for example on public transport or if you've touched high-traffic surfaces such as door handles, lift buttons and railings." Rest and rehydrate On the topic of recovery, Niamh advised: "Norovirus can be exhausting, so it's important to get as much rest as possible. This illness also runs the risk of sufferers becoming dehydrated. Superdrug's Rehydration Sachets can help replace the essential fluids and salts that are lost through diarrhoea. Paracetamol can also help with aches and pains that can be experienced during norovirus." Niamh added that paracetamol, such as Superdrug's Own Brand Paracetamol, costs as little as 3p per caplet. Seek medical advice For those struggling with the illness, Niamh recommended: "Unfortunately there's no set time frame for the body to get over norovirus and instead you will need to wait for the virus to work itself out of your system. Seek further medical advice if norovirus symptoms worsen, including blood within diarrhoea, high temperature and if you can't keep fluids down."
Mint
02-05-2025
- Health
- Mint
Centre orders thorough safety review of painkiller Nimesulide for adults
New Delhi: Concerned over the rampant misuse of Nimesulide drug used to treat pain and fever, the government has asked the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) to conduct an extensive review of the prescription medicine and its effects on adults. Nimesulide is classified as a Schedule H drug under the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, 1945. Drugs listed under Schedule H are prescription drugs, which means they can only be sold by retail on the prescription of a registered medical practitioner. Also Read | Side-effects of banned drug Nimesulide still reported in children: Report India's top medical research body will review this drug after it was withdrawn or had its use curtailed in several countries due to safety concerns. Recently, India completely banned this formulation for veterinary use due to safety concerns. 'There is a concern that Nimesulide drug may be causing side-effects to adults as well. To review the same, it has been referred to the ICMR. Right now, there is only one medicine—Paracetamol—to reduce fever, which reduces temperatures by 2 degrees. So, there's no alternative. Now, the government is evaluating the effects of Nimesulide in adult population. The drug is already banned for paediatric use for children below 12 years," an official aware of the matter said. Queries sent to a Union health ministry spokesperson remained unanswered till press time. Also Read | Pharmacy colleges being rated after teaching scandal Nimesulide belongs to a class of painkillers called Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), widely used for its anti-inflammatory properties. The drug is easily available over the counter. Introduced in the early 1980s, it quickly became popular for its fast-acting and effective relief of various pain and inflammatory conditions. Experts say that prolonged use of Nimesulide can adversely affect liver and kidney, and can also interfere with fertility. In India, the use of Nimesulide is prohibited in children below 12 years of age, following reports of liver damage. Also Read | India seeks details of pharma exports to Pakistan ahead of likely total ban Recent concerns have been raised regarding its continued use among adults, especially in high-risk groups, prompting the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO), headed by the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI), to review the safety of the drug. The issue was discussed at a Drugs Technical Advisory Board (DTAB) meeting held in the Union ministry of health and family welfare last week. 'ICMR has been asked to conduct a systematic review of the use of the drug in adult population for further deliberation to take a final call," the official cited earlier said on the condition of anonymity. Nimesulide is available in India under different brand names manufactured by several companies. In India, Dr. Reddy's Laboratories is among drugmakers that produce Nimesulide. A Dr. Reddy's Laboratories' spokesperson said: "Robust research and clinical trials have consistently established the safety and efficacy of Nimesulide, when used as prescribed. We respect the ICMR's recommendations regarding Nimesulide. We wish to clarify that our company does not manufacture or distribute Nimesulide in doses exceeding 100 mg. Our Prescribing Information (PI) for Nimesulide serves as a comprehensive guide for healthcare providers, ensuring responsible prescription and use of the medication. The PI specifies that Nimesulide is indicated for short-term treatment in approved indications, and not exceeding more than 10 days. Additionally, the PI highlights that Nimesulide is not recommended for use in pregnant or lactating women and patients with renal or hepatic impairments." To be sure, in 2023, a representative from Dr. Reddy's Laboratories submitted a representation to DCGI highlighting the safety of Nimesulide in adult population. According to PharmaTrac data, the drug's Moving Annual Total (MAT) for sales, which represents the total sales value over the past 12 months, has grown by almost 15% since 2020 and currently stands at ₹ 424 crore. During last week's DTAB meeting, ICMR said that that Nimesulide should be used only as a second-line drug, after exhausting first-line options, the official said. At the meeting, ICMR said that Nimesulide should not be used in pregnant, lactating and women planning for pregnancy. 'Nimesulide should not be used in patients with renal and hepatic impairment and also should not be co-administered with other hepatotoxic and renal toxic drugs." All oral formulations of Nimesulide above 100mg in immediate release dosage form should be prohibited, it said. Medical experts said that Nimesulide needs to be used cautiously, and dose should not exceed 100mg. Dr. Arvind Aggarwal, senior consultant, internal medicine, Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute, Delhi, said: 'Nimesulide is a Schedule H drug in India and requires a prescription, but it is widely available over the counter (OTC). Self-medication is the main concern which is increasing the risk of adverse effects. Prolonged use of Nimesulide can adversely affect liver and kidney, can also cause fertility issues. Hepatotoxicity or liver toxicity is the most widely observed side-effect of Nimesulide. The drug is banned for children under 12 due to severe liver damage risks." He added that some European countries have restricted its use to short-term only, and consider as a second-line therapy if other drugs fail. However, in India, doctors are using it as a first-line treatment. 'Hence, a regulatory concern is justified given the risk factors. The safety review of Nimesulide would lead us towards effective patient safety in terms of medicine use and surely reassess its role in adults, particularly in high-risk groups."
