Asthma, COPD Linked to Frequent Acetaminophen Use

According to a recent study published in the "American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine," researchers have found that frequent acetaminophen users were more likely to have lung disease than those who seldom or never used the drug. In contrast, neither ibuprofen (Motrin, Nuprin) nor aspirin use was associated with lung problems in this study.

Frequent use of acetaminophen increases the risks for asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and decreased lung function. Acetaminophen, which is found in over-the-counter (OTC) medications such as Tylenol, and prescription pain medications such as OxyContin and Vicodin, is also found in many cold and allergy medications.

With over 600 OTC medications containing the active ingredient acetaminophen, there is concern that many people are consuming levels that are putting them at greater risk for developing serious illnesses or even dying from acetaminophen overdose.

Read the full article from Medpage Today at http://www.medpagetoday.com/tbindex.cfm?tbid=974&topicid=63