“Paracetamol Challenge” on Tiktok: “The risk is not to spend a few days in the hospital but to have the liver destroyed!”

Teh Dangers of the Paracetamol Challenge

As mid-February, emergency physicians across Occitania have been on high alert for a concerning trend: young people intentionally ingesting high doses of paracetamol.

A Social Media-Driven Hazard

The culprit? A dangerous challenge circulating on TikTok, originating in the United States. this challenge entices participants to consume excessive amounts of paracetamol, aiming to end up hospitalized and earn the “palm” for the longest stay.

“A drug remains a poison and, taken in high doses, paracetamol creates irreversible liver complications. Paracetamol poisoning is the first cause of liver transplantation among young people,” warns Dr. Pierre Roucolle, Deputy Director of Samu 31 University Hospital Center (CHU) in Toulouse.

Severe Consequences, Delayed Symptoms

While one case has been reported in the Haute-Garonne department, Dr. Roucolle stresses the severity of the challenge. the allure of hospital attention masks a life-threatening risk.

“It is crucial to remind these young people that taking a quantity of paracetamol will not just lead them to the hospital and that they can then go home after a few days. The risk is to have the liver destroyed and therefore having to wait for a transplant.”

Furthermore, the danger lies in the delayed onset of symptoms. “One of the traps,” Dr. Roucolle explains, “is that the first manifestations of liver malfunction can onyl arrive after 48 hours.” Jaundice, abdominal pain on the right side, fatigue, and changes in alertness are among the warning signs, indicating the liver’s struggle to perform its detoxification function.

Safe Use and Emergency Action

Paracetamol is a valuable drug for managing fever and mild to moderate pain. Though, it must be used responsibly. without a prescription, the maximum daily dose is 3 grams, or even less for those under 50 kilograms, with a minimum interval of 4 to 6 hours between doses.

Should you suspect a paracetamol overdose, immediate action is crucial. Contact emergency services by dialing 15 right away.

Protecting Our Youth

This alarming trend highlights the potential dangers of social media challenges. It underscores the importance of open communication, education, and responsible online behavior among young people. by raising awareness about the risks associated with the paracetamol challenge and promoting safe drug use practices,we can collectively strive to protect the health and well-being of our youth.

What can parents do to educate their children about the dangers of the paracetamol challenge adn prevent them from participating?

Teh Dangers of the paracetamol Challenge with Dr. Lucy Hartfield, Emergency physician & Toxicologist

Alarming Trend:Intentional Paracetamol Overdose

Archyde: Dr. Hartfield, we’ve been witnessing a disturbing trend across Occitania. Can you tell us more about this paracetamol challenge happening on social media?

Dr. Lucy hartfield: Unluckily,yes. We’re seeing young peopel intentionally ingesting dangerously high doses of paracetamol as part of a challenge on TikTok, originating from the United States. the goal is to spend the longest time in the hospital, earning what they call the “palm.”

Understanding the Risk:Paracetamol Poisoning

Archyde: What makes this challenge so hazardous? Isn’t paracetamol a common over-the-counter drug?

Dr. Hartfield: While low doses are safe and effective for managing pain and fever, taking large amounts of paracetamol can lead to severe liver damage. It’s a toxic dose, Archyde. paracetamol poisoning is the leading cause of acute liver failure worldwide, and the majority of cases are due to intentional self-harm, often involving adolescents and young adults.

Delay in Symptoms:Hiding the True Danger

Archyde: We’ve heard that symptoms may not manifest immediately. Can you explain why this is concerning?

Dr. Hartfield: Exactly. One of the traps of paracetamol poisoning is the delay in symptoms.They can take anywhere from 12 hours to 72 hours to appear, during which time the liver cells are silently being destroyed. The initial symptoms, like jaundice, right upper abdominal pain, and fatigue, might not seem like a big deal at first, but they indicate severe liver malfunction and an urgent need for medical intervention.

Safe Use & emergency Action Guide

Archyde: How should individuals use paracetamol safely, and what should they do if they suspect an overdose?

Dr.Hartfield: Always follow the recommended dosage on the package. Without a prescription, the maximum daily dose is 3 grams, or less for those under 50 kilograms, with a minimum interval of 4 to 6 hours between doses.If you or someone else has taken more than the recommended dose, contact emergency services immediately by dialing 15. Don’t wait for symptoms to appear; early intervention is crucial in managing paracetamol poisoning.

Engaging Youth:Educating Beyond the Challenge

Archyde: How can we address this alarming trend and protect our youth from similar dangers in the future?

Dr. Hartfield: Open and honest dialog about the severe consequences of drug misuse is key. We need to educate young people about the risks of social media challenges and promote safe drug use practices offline. By joining forces with parents, guardians, educators, and healthcare providers, we can collectively create a supportive surroundings that prioritizes the well-being and safety of our young ones.

Have you heard about the paracetamol challenge, and how would you tackle this growing issue?