Painkillers: How to Take Them Safely Without Harming Your Liver
Painkillers are a go-to item for many people, especially working adults who often experience headaches. Many choose to take painkillers to relieve the discomfort. But before your liver suffers any more damage, let’s take a closer look at how to use painkillers safely.
How Much Painkiller is Safe for Your Liver?
Painkillers are not entirely harmful, but they must be taken in the right dosage. The safe limit is no more than 4,000 mg per day. The recommended intervals are:
- 325-500 mg: every 4-6 hours
- 1,000 mg: every 6-8 hours
- Do not take painkillers continuously for more than 7 days
Why Can Long-Term Use of Painkillers Harm the Liver and Kidneys?
Once ingested, painkillers are processed and excreted by the liver or kidneys. Taking them for an extended period can impair their function. If you experience chronic headaches, it’s best to see a doctor to determine the root cause and receive proper treatment instead of relying on excessive medication.
Did You Know? Alcohol Increases the Risk of Liver Failure!
It’s not just pre-existing liver conditions that require caution when taking painkillers—alcohol consumption is another major risk factor. Drinking more than three alcoholic beverages per day significantly increases the risk of liver failure. People in this category should limit painkiller intake to no more than 2,000 mg per day.
Warning Signs: Stop the Medication and See a Doctor Immediately
Taking an overdose of painkillers is often unintentional. If you experience:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Stomach pain
- Excessive sweating
And if symptoms worsen, such as:
- Severe upper abdominal pain
- Dark-colored urine
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes
These are signs of overdosing, and you should seek medical attention immediately!
Painkillers can provide headache relief, but they only treat the symptom, not the cause. If you experience frequent headaches, it’s best to see a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and proper treatment.
