Archive for month: December, 2024

A viral Instagram post claims that Dolo 650 or paracetamol is the Most Harmful Medicine in the World. The user’s claim is FALSE.

Claim

In an Instagram post, it is claimed that Dolo 650 or paracetamol is the Most Harmful Medicine in the World. The reel by the user uhudnutrients is titled, “Most Harmful Medicine In the Worth” As per the user paracetamol or Dolo 650 is the most side-effect-prone medicine. As per the user, researchers in 40 countries have done research and if an award were to be given, to the world’s worst medicine, it would go to this one. The user says that this medicine is so dangerous, yet we treat it like a universal solution and give it to the children whenever they have a fever, as if distributing sweets. The user further adds that this medicine should never be consumed.

The user’s viral reel has garnered 8.2 million views, 87,909 likes, 738 comments, and 260,000 shares. You can view the reel here.

Fact Check

The claim made by the Instagram user is False. Dolo 650 or paracetamol is considered safe for managing fever and pain when used appropriately. There is no scientific evidence or medical consensus to support the assertion that Dolo 650 or paracetamol is the worst medicine in the world.

Understanding Paracetamol 

Paracetamol, also known as acetaminophen, is a widely used analgesic and antipyretic for relieving mild to moderate pain and reducing fever. It is absorbed in the small intestine, metabolized in the liver, and has an onset of action within an hour for oral use and 5-10 minutes for IV use, with effects lasting 4-6 hours. It is available in various forms, including oral, rectal, and IV, with dosing adjusted for age, weight, and condition. Common side effects include nausea and vomiting. Paracetamol is approved globally for conditions like fever and pain and is accessible in different strengths and formulations.

What is Dolo 650?

Dolo 650 is a brand name for paracetamol in India and is manufactured and marketed by Micro Labs Limited. It is an allopathic medication containing 650 mg of paracetamol (IUPAC name: Acetaminophen). It belongs to the therapeutic class of analgesics and antipyretics and is widely used for the treatment of fever and pain. After oral administration, paracetamol reaches peak plasma concentration within 30 minutes to 1 hour, with an onset of action occurring in less than an hour and a duration of 4 to 6 hours. Paracetamol is primarily metabolized in the liver and has minimal excretion as it incorporates into phospholipids, triglycerides, and cholesteryl esters. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, and redness of rectal mucus membranes. Available over the counter in tablet form, Dolo 650 is approved by the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) and is distributed in countries including India, Germany, Canada, France, and the USA.

Overdosage and Long-Term Risks of Dolo 650

An overdose of Dolo 650, containing 650 mg of paracetamol, can lead to severe liver toxicity, including renal tubular necrosis, hypoglycemic coma, liver necrosis, and potentially liver failure or death due to the toxic metabolite NAPQI. 

Is Paracetamol Dangerous for Health?

Paracetamol, when used as directed, is considered safe and effective for managing pain and reducing fever. However, It is important to follow recommended dosages and consult a doctor for long-term use.

NHS UK has confirmed the safety of paracetamol and  noted “Paracetamol is often used to treat mild to moderate pain. Paracetamol is safe for most people to take and side effects are rare.”

The U.S. FDA identifies acetaminophen, the active ingredient in paracetamol, as one of the most commonly used components in a variety of over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription medications. It is widely recognized for its effectiveness in relieving pain and reducing fever. Acetaminophen is often combined with other ingredients in OTC medications designed to address symptoms of allergies, colds, coughs, flu, and insomnia. In prescription drugs, it is frequently paired with additional compounds to manage moderate to severe pain effectively. Despite its widespread use, the FDA warns that exceeding the recommended dosage of acetaminophen can lead to serious liver damage, emphasizing the importance of adhering to dosage guidelines.

Therefore, overuse or extended use of Paracetamol may have certain side effects but it is important to note that it is effective and safe within prescribed limits.

Is Dolo 650 Most Harmful Medicine in the World?

There is no scientific evidence or medical consensus to support the claim by the Instagram user that DOLO 650 (paracetamol) is most harmful medicine in the world. On the contrary, there is evidence that paracetamol is safe for use. 

Indian Academy of Pediatrics highlighted that Paracetamol is the safest for fever and recommended not to use other medicines like aspirin or nimesulide for control of fever in children. 

The World Health Organization recommends that paracetamol can be used to treat fever in children if their temperature is greater than 38.5 °C (101.3 °F). 

The Ministry Of Consumer Affairs has recommended that adults take a maximum of 1,000 mg of paracetamol per single dose, with a daily limit of up to 4,000 mg. For children, the recommended dosage depends on their age and weight, typically calculated at 15 mg per kilogram of body weight.

Dolo 650 may be effective in relieving pain. A study published in Bioinformation reported that Dolo 650 demonstrated superior efficacy compared to a placebo in managing pain during the initial six hours following the completion of shaping and cleaning procedures for root canals. 

The use of the drug has also been associated with reported side effects. A study by Jaspreet Kaur et al. identified significant risks associated with acetaminophen use in people aged 65 years or more, including peptic ulcer bleeding, gastrointestinal bleeding, heart failure, hypertension, and chronic kidney disease. 

Another study led by Iwona Popiołek et. al. highlighted that excessive intake of paracetamol can commonly trigger allergic reactions, including swelling (angioedema), skin rashes, and hives (urticaria).

Similarly, a study published in the World Journal of Clinical Cases highlights the potential risks associated with commonly used medications. The findings reveal that even widely available over-the-counter drugs, such as paracetamol, can sometimes lead to drug-induced lung damage.

The claim that Dolo 650 is the most harmful medicine in the world is False. Dolo 650, which contains paracetamol, is widely used for relieving pain and reducing fever. When taken as recommended, it is generally safe with minimal side effects. While excessive or prolonged use can lead to serious health risks, there is no scientific evidence to support the claim that Dolo 650 is the Most Harmful Medicine in the World.

In a conversation with Dr Aman Rathore, DNB, Critical Care Medicine, Max Super Speciality Hospital regarding the claim, he said, “No, Dolo 650 is not the world’s worst medicine. This claim is entirely false. Dolo 650, which contains paracetamol, is one of the most commonly used and widely trusted medicines for relieving fever and mild to moderate pain. Approved by health authorities like the Drug Controller General of India, it has been in use for decades with an excellent safety profile when taken as directed. Concerns typically arise from misuse or overdose, which can strain the liver. However, such risks are associated with any medication if not used responsibly. Dolo 650 is safe for most individuals, including children and the elderly, provided the recommended dosage is followed. It’s crucial to consult a doctor if you have underlying conditions or are taking other medications. Spreading misinformation about trusted medicines can cause unnecessary fear. Trust evidence-based medical advice to ensure your safety and health.”

Dr Juhi Singla, MD (Pharmacologist), SGT UNIVERSITY Gurgaon, MBBS, Era’s Lucknow Medical College further added, “Dolo 650 or paracetamol 650 is one of the most commonly used medicines for fever and pain relief. It contains paracetamol, a trusted drug recommended by doctors worldwide for decades. When used correctly, it’s safe, effective, and affordable. However, like any medicine, it should be taken responsibly. Misusing or overusing it can lead to harmful side effects, especially on the liver. As a Pharmacologist , I’ve seen how Dolo 650 or paracetamol 650 has helped countless people recover from mild illnesses. But I’ve also come across cases where people take it without understanding the proper dosage, thinking it’s harmless just because it’s available over the counter. That’s where problems arise.

The key is balance. If you have a fever or mild pain, Dolo 650 can work wonders to ease your discomfort. But it’s crucial to stick to the recommended dose and not exceed it, no matter how tempting it might be to speed up recovery. If symptoms persist or worsen, don’t rely solely on medicines like Dolo—reach out to a doctor.”

Medical Dialogues Final Take

While Dolo 650 or paracetamol 650 is effective for relieving pain and reducing fever, it is not inherently harmful when used as directed. The overuse of this medicine can lead to serious health complications. It is crucial to adhere to recommended dosages and consult a doctor if symptoms persist or if there are concerns about side effects.

Thus, the claim is FALSE.

Kalaburagi: In a move to boost the healthcare facilities in Karnataka, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Sunday inaugurated a 371-bed facility of the Sri Jayadeva Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences and Research in Kalaburagi.

The aim is to provide quality treatment in the Kalyana Karnataka region eliminating the need to travel to distant places like Hyderabad or Bengaluru for medical care.

The announcement was made during a media conference held on Friday by Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Minister Priyank Kharge, alongside Medical Education Minister Sharan Prakash Patil. The Kalaburagi branch of the prestigious Jayadeva Institute, established in 2016, has made a remarkable contribution to the region’s healthcare services, serving over 15 lakh people since its inception. The hospital has also performed 25,000 angiograms, 13,000 angioplasties, and 1,300 open-heart surgeries, offering life-saving treatments to patients.

According to an ANI news report, ”Jaydeva Hospital inauguarted today is important in the healthcare system of Kalyan Karnataka. (Article) 371 J was enacted as a result of the struggle of Mallikarjun Kharke, Leader of the opposition in the Rajya Sabha, and today we are inaugurating a 371-bed hospital here,” the Karnataka CM said during a press conference in Kalaburagi.

Also Read: 2000-bed state-of-the-art hospital to come up in Chandigarh

As per the recent media report, Mr Priyank told the Hindu, “The opening of the branch in 2016 was a major step that the Congress government had taken to expand health facilities in the region. When Kalyana Karnataka region celebrates 10 years of its special status, which is accorded to it under Article 371(J) of the Constitution, we have now built a new building with a 371-bed capacity for the branch.”

The key feature of the new Jayadeva Institute branch is its commitment to making advanced cardiac care accessible to everyone, particularly underserved populations. The new hospital will have 105 ICU beds, 120 general wards, three operation theatres, and three cardiac cath labs besides CT and MRI units.

Also Read: 300-bedded hospital spanning over 25 acres to come up in Jharkhand

According to Deccan Herald, Patil said, “A total of Rs 377.17 crore has been spent on the construction, equipment, and other facilities at the hospital. Of the 377.17 crores, Rs 262 crore has been spent on building construction and the remaining amount for medical equipment, furniture,e and other works. The hospital has been currently operating in the GIMS building and will be relocated to the new building in January.”

The minister emphasized that the hospital will be fully staffed, with a primary focus on establishing a super-specialty hospital alongside the mother and child hospital following the inauguration of the Jayadeva Institute. This expansion aims to alleviate the heavy patient influx at GIMS Hospital. Additionally, the new facility will be equipped with all essential infrastructure, including a reliable drinking water supply, to ensure a seamless healthcare experience for patients.

 A new study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology illuminate the critical relationship between hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) and the risk of developing early coronary artery disease (CAD) in women. Data from Olmsted County, Minnesota were analyzed, where the research revealed patterns in women with a history of HDP by emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis and customized treatments.

The study followed a total of 506 women diagnosed with incident CAD who underwent coronary angiography between 2002 and 2016. It found that women with HDP were significantly younger at the time of their CAD diagnosis when compared to their counterparts with normotensive pregnancies. The median age at diagnosis for HDP-affected women was 64.8 years, nearly 7 years younger than the median age of 71.8 years for women with normal pregnancies.

Further, this study identified a strong link between HDP and acute coronary syndromes (ACS). Women with a history of HDP were over twice as likely to express higher SYNTAX scores, a measure of the complexity and severity of coronary artery disease. This association highlights the elevated risk of more advanced and intricate coronary blockages in these women.

Another critical finding was the increased risk of myocardial infarction with nonobstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA) among women with HDP. This condition, characterized by acute myocardial infarction without significant coronary artery obstruction, was over twice as common in the HDP group. The results underline the unique mechanisms of CAD in women with a history of pregnancy complications.

This study illuminate the importance of viewing HDP as a crucial early risk factor for CAD. While traditional risk factors such as high cholesterol and diabetes remain vital considerations, the study advocates for integrating HDP history into cardiovascular risk assessments for women. Early interventions and a focus on nonobstructive coronary disease could improve outcomes for this high-risk group.

HDP, including preeclampsia and gestational hypertension, is increasingly recognized as a precursor to cardiovascular disease later in life. This research adds new evidence by demonstrating its role in accelerating CAD onset and influencing the type of coronary artery disease, including more severe or nonobstructive forms. Overall, the findings point to an urgent need for improved monitoring of women with HDP and further research to understand the underlying mechanisms linking pregnancy-related hypertension to future heart disease.

Source:

Vaughan, L. E., Kanaji, Y., Suvakov, S., Parashuram, S., Butler Tobah, Y. S., Chamberlain, A. M., Bielinski, S. J., Milic, N., Gulati, R., Nath, K. A., Lerman, A., & Garovic, V. D. (2024). Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy Increase the Risk for Myocardial Infarction. In Journal of the American College of Cardiology. Elsevier BV. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jacc.2024.06.049