It’s a common habit, especially among young people, to take 1-2 Tylenols before going out as it can prevent hangovers. But, this only puts their life or their kidneys at risk.
According to new research, taking Tylenol with a small amount of alcohol increases the risk of kidney disease by 123%.
In the words of lead researcher Harrison Ndetan, an associate professor for research and biostatistics at Parker University in Dallas, “Most people take this medication without any input from pharmacists or physicians, and that’s where the public-health concern is. People buy acetaminophen over the counter, and they also are casual alcohol users, and they don’t know that there is a harmful interaction.”
He further adds that “Alcohol can interfere with the gene that regulates the way the body processes acetaminophen.” Although the label clearly says that Tylenol is not to be mixed with alcohol, this warning is often ignored.
Professor Ndetan wants to raise public awareness on the matter saying “…it is important for people to receive this message because people will take them despite those warnings.”
How to Heal Your Liver
If you’ve been a long-term user of Tylenol or other acetaminophen products, be aware of the symptoms of liver damage. The most common include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, dark urine, dark-colored stools, jaundice, and loss of appetite. It normally takes some time for the symptoms to develop but they do indicate liver damage, even liver failure.
Also, protect your health by staying away from Tylenol and other acetaminophen products. Last, but not least, detoxify your liver every now and then.
