Crammed in many medical cabinets in our homes, paracetamol is a go-to painkiller for treating various aches and pains.
Many take the small white pill without thinking twice about its unwanted effects, but there are some side effects to be aware of just like with any other medication.
While the vast majority of people taking paracetamol have nothing to fear, some people might experience changes in their bowel habits, according to Dr Deborah Lee, from Dr Fox Online Pharmacy.
Diarrhoea and constipation
Considered “common” side effects of the popular medication, diarrhoea and constipation occur in between one to 10 percent of users.
Dr Lee said: “Users may also complain of tummy pain, nausea, vomiting and indigestion.”
The good news is that paracetamol rarely causes side effects as long as you stick to the recommended dose.
In case you’re not aware, the standard portion is one or two 500mg tablets of paracetamol taken up to four times in a 24-hour period.
While it can be tempting to keep popping the pain relief when you’re battling consistent pain, the doctor warned that “this is highly dangerous”.
She said: “Even taking a few extra tablets can have a very serious outcome and can be fatal.”
If you ingest too much of the popular painkiller, you can develop liver failure which can lead to another side effect that strikes on the loo.
Clay-coloured stools
The doctor explained that paracetamol overdose can spur on jaundice, which describes yellowing of your skin and eyes.
Jaundice can be also accompanied by clay-coloured stools that appear light greyish-white, resembling clay or putty.
Dr Lee added that symptoms like these usually occur within a few days of paracetamol overdose.
Black tarry stools
Another problem linked to paracetamol that can be spotted when you go for a number two is melena.
The doctor said: “Melena – black tarry stools – although uncommon – have been reported in those taking paracetamol long-term.
“The stools look black as the bleeding has occurred in the upper part of the gastrointestinal tract (usually the oesophagus or stomach) and as the red blood passes through the intestines it changes to its characteristic black ‘old blood’ colour.”
If you notice changes in your bowel habits when taking the popular pain relief, you should stop taking them, Dr Lee advised.
She added: “However, if you have black stools or ever see red blood in your stools, in the toilet or on the loo paper, report this without delay to your GP.
“True melena is a medical emergency and needs urgent assessment. Go to A&E immediately or phone 999.”
Fortunately, most people will be able to take paracetamol without any problems as the pain relief is considered a “useful, safe” medicine.
“But as with any medicine, it should be taken wisely and if side effects occur or the medical history changes, its use should be reviewed,” Dr Lee said.