Asthma Link With Paracetamol - NPA Advice

Main Category: Respiratory / Asthma
Also Included In: Pharmacy / Pharmacist;  Pediatrics / Children's Health
Article Date: 22 Sep 2008 - 4:00 PDT

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Colette McCreedy, NPA Chief Pharmacist and Director of Pharmacy Practice said: "Studies published this week showed the potential link between the frequent use of paracetamol in early childhood with the development of asthma. However, neither study conclusively proves that using paracetamol causes asthma in later life (this is acknowledged by both studies) so further research is needed to prove a definitive causal link. However, the studies do reinforce findings from previous studies that show the development of asthma and the frequent use of paracetamol may be related.

The NPA would like to reinforce the message that paracetamol is safe and effective when it is used properly at the correct dosage, and that it should be continued to be used for example to control a fever or when it is needed to control pain. Worried parents should be reassured and advised that they should continue to use paracetamol where it is indicated and necessary.

Parents should be advised that medicines should not be used unnecessarily and this is no exception with paracetamol for children.

These studies reinforce the NPA's argument that paracetamol based products should not be switched from P to GSL as the involvement of a pharmacist can ensure that patients use medicines safely and effectively and only where necessary. The NPA believes that switching paracetamol products to GSL is both unnecessary and a risk to patient safety.

If people are unsure about the taking of paracetamol, the NPA recommends that they should ask their pharmacist for the most up to date advice."

National Pharmacy Association

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