When Paracetamol is Overused, It Can Cause the Following Side Effects:

• Blood and lymphatic system disorders: Long-term use of paracetamol can cause fatigue as it depletes hemoglobin molecules in red blood cells, which are responsible for carrying oxygen. This leads to anemia, thrombocytopenia (low platelet count), neutropenia (low neutrophil count), and pancytopenia (a decrease in all types of blood cells).

• Cardiovascular and vascular disorders: Paracetamol is often combined with other active ingredients to enhance its therapeutic effect or improve palatability (e.g., in effervescent tablets). These combinations should be used cautiously in patients with hypertension, as some formulations contain vasoconstrictors that can increase blood pressure.

• Gastrointestinal disorders: Within 2–3 hours of ingestion, it may cause nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain.

• For injectable forms: May cause injection site reactions such as pain, burning sensation, fatigue, or peripheral edema.

• Metabolic and nutritional disorders: There is a risk of hypokalemia (low potassium levels).

• Muscle spasms and jaw stiffness: Overdosing on paracetamol can suppress the central nervous system, leading to seizures and respiratory distress before death.

• Psychiatric disorders: Insomnia and anxiety may occur.

• Respiratory, thoracic, and mediastinal disorders: Shortness of breath and bronchospasm, particularly in asthmatic patients sensitive to aspirin or other NSAIDs.

• Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: May cause rash, itching, erythema, or hives. In more severe cases, it may be accompanied by fever and lead to rare but dangerous skin reactions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome, Lyell’s syndrome (toxic epidermal necrolysis), and acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis.

• Potentially fatal: An overdose of paracetamol can cause liver damage, leading to acute toxicity that may result in death. Patients may fall into a coma either shortly before sudden death or after several days in a coma.