Asthma and paracetamol link

Asthma symptoms are increased by regular use of paracetamol, a European study of more than 1,000 adults has indicated.

According to the Global Allergy and Asthma European Network (GA2LEN) study, people who take paracetamol at least once a week are almost three times more likely to develop asthma than those taking paracetamol less often.

The research found that people using other painkillers did not have an increased risk of developing asthma or an increased risk of symptoms.

The GA2LEN study said the action of paracetamol reduces levels of ‘glutathione’ in the lungs, an antioxidant substance needed to defend the airways against damage from air pollution and tobacco smoke.

Dr Seif Shaheen from Imperial College London, one of the authors of the study, said the evidence showing the link between paracetamol and asthma is growing.

“Since 2000, several publications have reported this association. We have also shown that asthma prevalence is higher in children and adults in countries with higher paracetamol sales.”

Around 470,000 people in Ireland have the condition, according to the Asthma Society of Ireland.

For more information see our Asthma Clinic at… http://www.irishhealth.com/clin/asthma/index.html

[Posted: Wed 17/09/2008]