The danger of paracetamol: the pain reliever can cause hematuria – the side effect is visible in the urine

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The color of your urine may indicate a serious side effect associated with with the use of paracetamol.

Paracetamol, considered one of the safest painkillers on the market, has probably been a part of your medicine cabinet for most of your life. However, the popular painkiller comes with warnings about possible side effects, just like any other medication. According to a doctor, one serious sign that appears in your urine could signal that it’s time to see your GP “without delay.” From constant headaches to persistent period pain, paracetamol is a great painkiller for a variety of aches and pains.While the popular pain reliever rarely causes side effects if you follow the correct dosage.

One of the most serious problems is known as hematuria – “bloody” urine. An overdose of paracetamol can cause hematuria. Every year, thousands of people go to the emergency room with an overdose of paracetamol, and about half of them require hospitalization. An overdose of paracetamol causes liver failure with nausea, vomiting and jaundice (yellowing of the skin). Liver failure occurs first, but then kidney failure may develop.

Even taking a few more pills than is currently recommended can lead to liver and kidney failure.

This is why it is so important to follow the recommended dose. The standard dose to follow is one or two 500mg tablets of paracetamol taken up to four times in 24 hours. However, if you take more and notice hematuria, it's important to talk to your doctor.