It’s the humble painkiller that’s a staple in almost every Australian household—but could your go-to remedy for headaches, aches, and fevers be quietly putting your liver in harm’s way?
Recent warnings from leading pharmacists suggest that millions of people may be unknowingly risking their liver health by misusing a common over-the-counter medicine.
Paracetamol (also known as acetaminophen) is one of the most widely used painkillers in Australia.
Paracetamol is found in everything from Panadol to cold and flu remedies and is often the first thing we reach for when a headache or muscle pain strikes. When taken as directed, it is considered safe and effective.
But, as Dipar Kamdar, a pharmacist and fellow at Kingston University, recently explained, even a slight overdose can have devastating consequences for your liver.
‘While generally safe when used as directed, taking too much—even slightly—can be extremely dangerous for your liver,’ Kamdar said.
‘Even small overdoses, or combining paracetamol with alcohol, can increase the risk of serious harm.’
The liver is your body’s detox powerhouse, breaking down everything from food to medication. When you take paracetamol, your liver processes it and, in the process, produces a toxic by-product called NAPQI.
Typically, your body neutralises NAPQI with a protective substance called glutathione. But if you take too much paracetamol, your liver’s glutathione stores can run out, allowing NAPQI to build up and attack liver cells.
This can lead to acute liver failure—a life-threatening emergency. Repeatedly taking just a little more than the recommended dose, or mixing paracetamol with alcohol, can also overwhelm your liver over time.
The growing burden of liver disease
Liver disease is on the rise, both in Australia and around the world. In the United Kingdom, diagnoses have surged by 40 per cent and deaths have quadrupled in the past two decades.
Here in Australia, liver disease is also a growing concern, with thousands of people affected each year. Worryingly, those aged 45 to 64 make up about half of all liver disease deaths.
The British Liver Trust estimates that 80 per cent of people with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD, formerly known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease) are undiagnosed.
That’s a staggering number, especially considering that as many as one in three adults may have some form of fatty liver disease.
There are two main types of liver disease:
- Alcoholic fatty liver disease is caused by excessive alcohol consumption.
- MASLD is linked to poor diet, obesity, diabetes, and high cholesterol.
Both types involve a build-up of fat in the liver, which can lead to inflammation, scarring (cirrhosis), and eventually liver failure if left untreated.
One of the most dangerous things about liver disease is that it often has no symptoms in its early stages. As the disease progresses, you might notice:
- Ongoing fatigue or weakness
- Nausea or loss of appetite
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
- Abdominal pain or swelling
- Swelling in the legs and ankles
If you notice any of these symptoms, seeing your doctor as soon as possible is essential. Early detection can make all the difference.
The good news? Up to 90 per cent of liver disease cases can be prevented with simple lifestyle changes. Here’s what the experts recommend:
- Take medications responsibly: Always stick to the recommended dose of paracetamol and never mix it with alcohol. If you need pain relief regularly, talk to your doctor.
- Eat a balanced diet: Limit foods high in saturated fat (like red meat, fried foods, and processed snacks). Instead, focus on vegetables, fruit, whole grains, legumes, and fish.
- Stay active: Regular exercise helps keep your liver healthy and reduces your risk of fatty liver disease.
- Limit alcohol: Drink in moderation, or not at all.
- Quit smoking: Smoking increases your risk of liver disease and many other health problems.
- Stay hydrated: Your liver needs water to function properly.
As Kamdar puts it, ‘The liver is a remarkably robust organ—but it isn’t invincible.’ You can help protect your liver for years by making simple changes.
Have you ever had a scare with paracetamol or liver health? Do you have tips for managing pain without over-relying on medication? We’d love to hear your experiences and advice—share your thoughts in the comments below!
Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Everyone’s health is unique, so it’s always best to consult a qualified healthcare professional if you have any concerns or questions about your health. We encourage you to seek expert guidance before making any medical decisions.
Also read: Could this new approved medicine be the answer to your sleep struggles?
The growing concern is for those left behind after their partners death from excessive drinking of alcohol and wrecking the liver. We are listed as drinking the most beer per capita. Sad. Not to be proud of . Next time in a group, have the guts to say, no, after one or two, “I’m looking after my liver and life , thanks mate” Your children may learn something, after all, children will copy their parents ,and you will see them progress in their lives .
I think that paracetemol is the go to pain killer due to codeine preparations being script only. Likely more people are turning to paracetemol as it is easier to access therefore the rate of this drug being taken is more now. Even though smaller packs are law it is easy to buy. Some people can’t take ibuprofen so the only real alternative is paracetemol unfortunately.