In Austria, sales in the painkillers market amounted to approximately 146.70 million euros in 2024 – and the trend is upward. Paracetamol is one of the most popular painkillers in Austria and can be found in almost every household. Now a new discovery of a side effect of the popular painkiller is causing a stir.
The painkiller paracetamol is available in pharmacies without a prescription, is well tolerated and is often recommended as the first choice for pain or fever. But even such a well-known drug has side effects and risks – especially if dosed incorrectly.
Metabolic acidosis caused by paracetamol
In the event of an overdose, the body increasingly produces certain metabolic products that can lead to acidification. This is also why manufacturers must now point out a new side effect.
The Federal Institute for Medicines and Medical Devices (BfArM) has announced a new side effect of paracetamol: metabolic acidosis. This metabolic disorder is characterized by hyperacidification of the blood, in which the body produces too much acid or does not break it down sufficiently.
Symptoms of metabolic acidosis:
- nausea
- Vomit
- fatigue
- faster/deeper breathing
People with kidney disease are more commonly affected
Metabolic acidosis as a side effect of paracetamol can in principle affect anyone, but is more common in people with chronic kidney disease or kidney failure.
The package leaflets of all medicines containing paracetamol, including combination products, will be updated to reflect this new side effect. The exact frequency of occurrence of this side effect is currently unknown.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
