Tylenol (acetaminophen) is an over-the-counter pain reliever and fever-reducer that is commonly used for children. The use of acetaminophen has increased dramatically over the past 50 years -- over the same time allergic diseases, such as asthma, have also become more common. Could there be an association between the use of acetaminophen and asthma? A recent study sought to determine the risk of asthma in teenagers using acetaminophen, and found that the development of asthma and eczema was 2.5 times more likely in those taking acetaminophen at least once a month. There was also a significant increase in the risk of developing nasal and eye allergies. Acetaminophen may cause an increase in inflammation, and ultimately allergic diseases, by reducing the amount of antioxidant enzymes in the body. Does this mean that you shouldn't take acetaminophen? The answer isn't completely clear, and more studies are needed, to see if there is truly an association between acetaminophen use and the development of allergies.
Learn more:
- Tylenol and Asthma
- Why Allergies are Becoming More Common
- Prevention of Allergies and Asthma in Children
