July 9, 2019
The Medicines Agency warns about the risks of paracetamol overdose. Overuse of these drugs is particularly harmful to the liver.
A prevention message
The ANSM wants pharmaceutical companies to add a prevention message to paracetamol boxes such as Dafalgan, Doliprane, Efferalgan and Fervex. These drugs are the most sold in France. However, these drugs carry significant risks for the liver when consumed in large quantities.
A new pictogram will appear on these drugs to inform consumers. Manufacturers will have nine months to adjust their labels and affix the following words on the front of the boxes: “Overdose = danger. Exceeding the dose can destroy the liver ”. The message should be written in capital letters and include a warning triangle.
Risks to the liver
Taken sensibly, paracetamol is safe and effective. Corn, these drugs are the number one cause of drug-induced liver transplants when consumed in overdose. Paracetamol had also caused the death of Naomi Musenga, whom the Samu had made fun of and who had then been intoxicated by this substance.
The French Observatory for Analgesic Drugs (OFMA) states that in 2018, 52% of the population received at least one reimbursed prescription for paracetamol. Among these people, 11.3% would have used paracetamol six times in the year.
Stephanie Haerts
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