The specialist warned about the dangerous combination of a number of antipyretics with alcohol

Senior lecturer at the Department of Biotechnology and Industrial Pharmacy at RTU MIREA, Maria Zolotareva, warned in an interview with RT that taking a number of painkillers and antipyretics with alcohol poses a serious threat to health.

“Paracetamol or acetaminophen is one of the most popular painkillers and antipyretics in the world. It is part of many other combination medications, including those used to relieve cold symptoms… But it is extremely important to remember that taking such medications at the same time as other medications containing paracetamol or alcoholic beverages poses a serious health risk, including death,” she warned interlocutor RT.

According to her, this is due to the hepatotoxic properties of paracetamol.

“When metabolized in the liver, acetaminophen breaks down into metabolites, one of which, N-acetyl-p-benzoquinoneimine (NAPQI), causes liver necrosis. When formed in small quantities and subject to a safe dosage, this metabolite is neutralized in the liver by glutathione. When using paracetamol and alcohol at the same time, the liver is under double attack,” she added.

The antioxidants produced may not be enough, and the liver becomes defenseless against the toxic effects of NAPQI, the expert emphasized.

“The action of the metabolite can cause necrosis of liver cells and lead in severe cases to liver failure, hepatitis or cirrhosis. The simultaneous use of paracetamol and alcohol negatively affects the functioning of the kidneys, which are also involved in the detoxification processes of the body, and can cause disturbances in the functioning of other organs,” the specialist said.

Therefore, according to her, it is always necessary to carefully read the instructions for taking the medicine and not take paracetamol or drugs containing it with alcohol.

“When drinking alcohol, you must wait until it is completely metabolized in the body (about 24-36 hours) and only then take the medicine. If a person has liver problems, then before taking the drug it is necessary to consult with your doctor,” she concluded.

Earlier, immunologist Vladimir Bolibok said in a conversation with RT that a surge in influenza incidence is expected around the end of November.