Paracetamol increases asthma in children

Added 04.12.2009

Asthma - the most common chronic disease among children

Over one million children in the UK are currently receiving asthma treatment, but the actual number suffering from the lung disorder is much higher. The incidence of asthma has increased dramatically over the past three decades, making it the most common chronic disease among children. A combination of environmental, lifestyle and genetic factors seem to play a role, such as environmental pollution, smoking, a family history of the disease and certain medications.

Nowadays, unfortunately, adults and children take many prescription medications. The painkiller paracetamol is one of the most commonly taken drugs and people mistakenly think it is safe. Children are often given cold/cough medications which contain paracetamol. Paracetamol has a long string of side effects including liver damage and recently, many scientific studies have found paracetamol increases risk of asthma in children.

Paracetamol use increases asthma

A decade ago a study found a link between paracetamol use and asthma. More precisely, the prevalence of wheeze increased by 0.52% in 13 to 14 year-olds for each gram increase in per capita paracetamol sales. A study published this year reinforces the connection: the odds of asthma are significantly increased in people who take paracetamol. The risk was particularly notable in children who had taken paracetamol in their first year of life or in the year prior to being diagnosed with asthma.

Paracetamol during pregnancy

The study also found a link between paracetamol use in pregnant women and risk of asthma in their children. Women who take paracetamol prenatally, especially during late pregnancy (20 to 30 weeks) have babies with a significantly increased risk for wheeze and asthma.

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Dr. Bo Nielsen's comments:

Paracetamol is unfortunately still considered a totally harmless painkiller, which you can even buy at petrol stations, newsagents and supermarkets. The safety of paracetamol is a huge misconception as the study shows. For several years we have known that paracetamol causes liver failure and has, albeit in rare cases, caused premature death even with a single dose of only 4 grams when combined with alcohol. Today, paracetamol is also the most commonly used suicide drug among teenagers, which sadly results in a very painful death. This study focuses on the increased risk of asthma associated with the use of this painkiller. The best advice is not to consider paracetamol as harmless, but to take it with caution. If you already suffer from asthma, I have personally experienced hundreds of asthma sufferers reduce the incidence and severity of their symptoms by taking supplements with grape seed extract. But also in this case, remember that the dosage of grape seed extract must be individualised to give maximum effect. Contact a health professional and let them help you with the most effectie dose.

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