Introduction

Paracetamol is a both OTC and prescription drug used to treat a lot of inflammatory and painful conditions including arthritis. Paracetamol is the generic name for Tylenol, and is primarily sold in Canada and European countries, though it can also be obtained in the United States. Paracetamol contains the drug known as acetaminophen 


How does it work?
Paracetamol belongs to the class of NSAIDs and blocks the production of prostaglandins, protective chemicals which cause pain and fever.

When is Paracetamol used?
Paracetamol is most commonly used for pain relief and fever reduction. It primarily takes care of simple fevers, headaches, joint pain and other small aches and pains. 

Limitations and drawbacks of Paracetamol

Paracetamol does not relieve the stiffness, redness and swelling that rheumatoid arthritis causes.

Unlike non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin and ibuprofen, Paracetamol does not relieve inflammation.

Paracetamol should never be taken on an empty stomach. Paracetamol use can also cause intestinal and stomach ulcers. 

Paracetamol should only be used as directed by your physician and never taken for a longer period of time than suggested.

Risk of serious drug interactions

Alert your doctor of any medications you are taking prior to starting on Paracetamol, as certain drugs such as aspirin or ibuprofen have negative interactions with it, and may increase your likelihood of side effects.

Consuming alcohol while taking this drug is dangerous, as it puts additional strain on the liver.

What are the common side effects of Paracetamol?

There are some rare and serious side effects that you should be aware of if you plan on taking it. A fever with chills or a sore throat not associated with prior illness can be a sign of an allergic reaction to Paracetamol. Sores, white spots in the mouth and lips, and oral ulcers are also another side effect that can occur. Skin rashes or hives have been noted as a more common side effect, and in some cases, unusual bleeding or bruising has also been reported. Weakness, tiredness and pain in the lower back or side that may be sharp or severe is another side effect that comes with intolerance to Paracetamol.

Some side effects of Paracetamol are less common, but more severe. The most serious concern with Paracetamol is the effect is has on the liver, and therefore certain things must be attended to immediately. Yellow eyes or skin can be a sign that the liver is damaged due to the ingestion of Paracetamol, and this is most frequently seen with large doses or extended periods of use. Bloody urine and stools are also a side effect of Paracetamol and suggest irritation in the stomach.

In what kind of people, this drug should never be used?

Paracetamol should not be taken by people who are allergic to ibuprofen or naproxen. Manufacturers also recommend people with peptic ulcers, mild diabetes, or gastritis should seek medical advice before using Paracetamol. Even if none of these conditions is present, there is still an increased risk of stomach bleeding when Paracetamol is taken with alcohol or warfarin.

Do you really need Paracetamol in arthritis?

Paracetamol is a medicine with a lot of associated side effects although it is available without prescription. Therefore, unless your healthcare provider prescribes it for your arthritis, you should avoid taking Paracetamol altogether and instead consider taking a natural and safe pain-relieving anti-inflammatory dietary supplement such as Provailen which is free of any side effects.


Can you use Provailen with Paracetamol?

Provailen is a purely dietary supplement composed of organic herbs; minerals and vitamins, there are no chances of "dangerous drug interactions". Therefore, if you or your doctor doesn't want to discontinue Paracetamol, you can still use Provailen along with Paracetamol. In fact, as Paracetamol does not address the key issue of arthritis i.e. inflammation, taking it with Provailen will in fact facilitate recovery and help with stiffness and tenderness in your joints.