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Although paracetamol is considered as one of the most popular and safest over-the-counter drugs, a new study claims that excessive self-administered use is potentially dangerous and can lead to cancer of the liver and other liver complications.

Paracetamol is being linked to cirrhosis, hepatitis, and cancer of the liver, Daily Mail UK reports. Research conducted at the University of Edinburg studied the effects of paracetamol in the liver cells in human and mouse tissue. They have found significant evidence that paracetamol can damage the liver by deteriorating the vital structural connection between the liver and the adjacent cells of the organ.

Tylenol is one of the most popular brands of paracetamol in the US. Excess dosage of the drug has been found to be the leading cause of acute liver failure in the US. This discovery meanwhile is treated as a lead that can help in developing safer alternatives for paracetamol.

The Sun UK also reported that the researchers are conducting further probes in providing therapies to counteract the harm that is caused by excessive use of paracetamol. Scientists are also looking for the link of paracetamol toxicity and the damage that it can contribute to liver conditions such as cirrhosis and hepatitis.

Tylenol contains acetaminophen which is considered as a safe drug when taken as directed, even for individuals with liver complications. However, there are still some risks that come with the use of the drug whether unsupervised or with a prescription. Damage to the liver can be severe with acetaminophen and an also lead to an overdose when taken while drinking alcohol.

Results of the study are looking forward to the need to be cautious with the use of paracetamol. Such actions can help in discovering how to resolve any other possible harm resulting from the excessive use of the over-the-counter drug.