Common Painkiller Linked to Organ Damage, Dementia
Nighttime medication carries significant risks with regular use, expert warns.
A widely used over-the-counter medication, Tylenol PM, has come under scrutiny from a leading health expert, who suggests it may cause severe health issues, including organ failure and increased dementia risk with frequent use. The warning highlights the need for caution.
Potential Dangers of Overuse
Dr. Ethan Melillo, a pharmacist, singled out Tylenol PM as a medication he strongly advises against due to its potential for misuse. The drug generates almost $1 billion annually.
According to Dr. Melillo, the combination of acetaminophen and diphenhydramine in Tylenol PM poses significant risks when taken regularly. Acetaminophen can cause liver damage, while diphenhydramine, used for inducing sleepiness, is linked to potential memory loss.
When the liver processes acetaminophen, it creates a toxic byproduct called NAPQI. The body typically neutralizes NAPQI with glutathione, an antioxidant. However, high doses of acetaminophen or low glutathione levels, often due to alcohol use or malnutrition, can overwhelm this process. This can lead to liver cell damage and potential failure.
Dr. Melillo noted that exceeding 4,000mg of acetaminophen daily significantly elevates the risk of liver damage. Considering acetaminophen’s presence in numerous medications, careful review of product labels is essential to monitor intake.
According to the American Liver Foundation, about 4.5 million adults in the U.S. have diagnosed liver disease (American Liver Foundation).
FDA Guidelines and Medication Ingredients
In 2011, the FDA recommended limiting acetaminophen in combination drugs to 325 mg per tablet. This was due to a lack of evidence showing additional benefits from higher doses, which were found to increase the risk of liver injury.
Despite these guidelines, each Tylenol PM tablet includes 500 mg of acetaminophen and 25 mg of diphenhydramine.
Impact on Risk Perception
Research indicates that acetaminophen may alter risk perception, potentially making activities appear less dangerous. A study from The Ohio State University showed that participants who ingested acetaminophen rated activities like bungee jumping as less risky compared to those who took a placebo.
The Role of Diphenhydramine
Dr. Melillo also expressed concerns about diphenhydramine, a common antihistamine known as Benadryl. It blocks histamine, a chemical that promotes wakefulness, thereby inducing drowsiness.
Because diphenhydramine is an anticholinergic medication, it can block acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter vital for memory and cognitive functions, potentially leading to memory loss.
Research has found that prolonged use of anticholinergics is associated with an elevated risk of dementia. Further, Dr. Melillo noted that diphenhydramine can cause other side effects such as dry mouth and urinary retention.
He suggests individuals seeking sleep aids consult with a healthcare professional about prescription alternatives to avoid dependency and long-term complications associated with Tylenol PM or Benadryl. He adds, “If you’re someone who takes this on a blue moon, then that’s fine, it’s not a big deal. But this should not be your go to medication for sleep every night… because you’re gonna want to prevent long term complications.”
