Acetaminophen, commonly known as Tylenol, is a widely used over-the-counter medication for mild to moderate pain. Past studies have shown that it is the preferred pain treatment for people with heart disease over other types of pain medications like NSAIDs. A new study using a mouse model found that acetaminophen changes proteins in cardiovascular tissue, potentially affecting heart function. This unexpected discovery has implications for biochemical pathways necessary for important functions like energy production and antioxidant use.
In the study, mice were given water with an amount of acetaminophen equivalent to 500 mg, the concentration found in one tablet of extra-strength Tylenol. After seven days, significant changes were observed in the heart tissue proteins of the mice that received acetaminophen compared to those that only had water. These protein alterations affected biochemical pathways responsible for energy production, antioxidant usage, and the breakdown of damaged proteins, with more than 20 different signaling pathways being affected. The researchers were surprised by the findings, as it was initially predicted that acetaminophen would have minimal effects on the heart at the concentrations used in the study.
Historically, acetaminophen has been considered the safest pain reliever for people with cardiovascular disease. However, recent studies have raised concerns about its potential impact on heart health. While acetaminophen is commonly used for pain relief, it does not have the anti-inflammatory properties that NSAIDs possess. NSAIDs have been associated with increased risks of cardiovascular concerns, such as stroke and changes in heart signaling pathways. The latest research suggests that even at moderate doses considered safe for use, acetaminophen may have significant effects on signaling pathways within the heart tissue, highlighting the need for more awareness and caution when using this painkiller.
Cardiologists interviewed about the study expressed surprise and caution about its implications. Acetaminophen has long been recommended as a safe pain relief option for individuals with heart issues. However, the study findings suggest that it may not be as benign as previously thought, particularly when used regularly over time. Further research is needed to determine if the effects observed in mice translate to humans and to identify any subpopulations of patients who may be more susceptible to the cardiac effects of acetaminophen. The research underscores the importance of understanding how acetaminophen may affect the heart in order to make better decisions for patient care. Additional studies in human subjects are needed to confirm the findings from this study and explore the mechanisms by which acetaminophen affects the cardiovascular system.
