Could Acetaminophen Increase Stroke Risk in Older Adults with Diabetes?

A study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society investigated a possible association between acetaminophen and heightened stroke risk in older adults, reports Medical News Bulletin . With data from care communities in southwestern France over an 18-month period, the researchers compared numbers of deaths, heart attacks, and strokes in residents who were taking acetaminophen with those who were not. A total of 2,239 out of 5,429 participants were taking acetaminophen, versus 3,190 non-users. No increase was observed in the number of deaths or heart attacks in participants taking acetaminophen compared to non-users. Both cohorts also experienced similar stroke numbers. However, a slightly higher stroke risk was seen in diabetics who were taking acetaminophen. The researchers concluded that acetaminophen is safe for most seniors.