Posted on 09/25/2025 11:17:31 AM PDT by Red Badger
Taking two common painkillers may be raising your risk of suffering from a deadly bacterial infection, a study suggests.
Ibuprofen, brand name Advil, and acetaminophen, brand name Tylenol, are readily-available over-the-counter drugs taken by millions every year to ease headaches, back and neck pain and fevers, among other ailments.
But researchers in Australia warn that the drugs, sold for about 20 cents a pill, could turbocharge antibiotic resistance, making deadly bacterial infections harder to treat.
In lab experiments, they found that the drugs made bacteria more resistant to a common antibiotic used to treat infections when used on their own or together.
The study was carried out in the lab, and not in humans, meaning the results may not fully translate to the real-world.
But the scientists said the study was a warning over regularly using painkillers, particularly to those in care homes who often take them alongside antibiotics and are at a heightened risk for bacterial infections.
About 1.27million people die from antibiotic resistance globally every year, in what the CDC has called 'one of the greatest public health challenges of our time'.
Dr Rietie Venter, a microbial resistance researcher who led the study, said: 'Antibiotic resistance isn't just about antibiotics anymore.
'This study is a clear reminder that we need to carefully consider the risks of using multiple medications, particularly in aged care where residents are often prescribed a mix of long-term treatments.'
She added: 'This doesn't mean we should stop using these medications, but we do need to be more mindful about how they interact with antibiotics, and that includes looking beyond just two-drug combinations.'
In the study, researchers tested acetaminophen, commonly used to relieve fevers, and ibuprofen, commonly found in flu medications.
(Excerpt) Read more at dailymail.co.uk ...
GOOGLE AI:
While acetaminophen (Tylenol) is generally safe to take with most antibiotics, there are some important considerations and potential interactions to be aware of. The main concerns are regarding specific health conditions, accidental overdose, and certain drug combinations.
General safety
No direct interaction:
For common antibiotics like amoxicillin or azithromycin (Z-Pak), there is no major interaction with acetaminophen. You can typically take these medications concurrently to manage symptoms like pain or fever associated with an infection.
Relieves symptoms:
Antibiotics treat the underlying bacterial infection, while acetaminophen can help you feel more comfortable by reducing fever, body aches, and other pain.
Convenience:
The medications can be taken at the same time, but you should always follow the separate dosing instructions for each drug.
Important considerations and risks
Liver damage: The most significant risk with Tylenol is liver damage from an overdose. This risk is higher if you have pre-existing liver problems, consume a high amount of alcohol, or are malnourished.
Hidden acetaminophen:
Be careful when taking combination cold and flu medications, as many contain acetaminophen. Taking Tylenol in addition to a combination product can lead to an accidental overdose. Always check the active ingredients of any over-the-counter medication you are taking.
Blood thinners (warfarin):
If you take a blood thinner like warfarin, you should consult a doctor before using acetaminophen and antibiotics together. Both acetaminophen and certain antibiotics can affect the blood’s ability to clot, potentially leading to bleeding complications.
Antibiotic resistance:
A recent study suggests that commonly used non-antibiotic drugs, including acetaminophen, could promote antibiotic resistance in gut bacteria when taken alongside antibiotics like ciprofloxacin. While this is an area of ongoing research, it is especially relevant for people with complex medication regimens.
Before combining any medications
Consult a healthcare provider:
It is crucial to consult your pharmacist or prescribing doctor if you are unsure about using Tylenol with a specific antibiotic or other medication.
Disclose all medications:
Inform your doctor and pharmacist about all prescription, over-the-counter, and supplementary medications you are taking so they can screen for potential interactions.
The only OTC pain kiler I take is Excedrin for Migraines. It’s 250 mg acetaminophen, 250 mg aspirin, and 65 mg caffeine. It’s acetaminophen level is lower than any dosage of Tylenol.
It’s very effective.
I just use plain old Bayer Aspirin and Ibuprofen (Advil, etc) occasionally. Always buy name brands, never the Dollar Tree brands..............
Unfortunately my headaches don’t respond to aspirin. But any pain killer I use, I use sparingly.
And yes, only brand names.
Thanks, I’ll give it a try.
One capsule/tablet or two?
Two is a common dose for Tylenol.
I take one. If I’m not feeling better after 2 hours I’ll take one more. But I try to stick to one, which usually works for me.
I used to purchase a couple of needle-nose pliers at Dollar Tree. Today, I own about a dozen—and STILL can’t find one when I one!
Their prices on certain food items have me now walking out with both arms full.
Their canned fruit items don’t last, however, due to defective canning methods.
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