WHO Recommends 'Tylenol' for Suspected COVID-19 Symptoms

[Image source=AP Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kwon Jae-hee] The World Health Organization (WHO) has advised people experiencing suspected symptoms of the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19) not to use the antipyretic analgesic ibuprofen. Instead, it recommended using 'Paracetamol.' Ibuprofen is known as the active ingredient in 'Children's Brufen Syrup' and 'Brufen Tablets,' while Paracetamol is the active ingredient in 'Tylenol.'

According to AFP and other sources on the 17th (local time), Christian Lindmeier, WHO spokesperson, stated that research is ongoing to determine whether ibuprofen has side effects in certain situations, and thus issued this caution.

Spokesperson Lindmeier said, "WHO experts are conducting research to provide additional recommendations," adding, "For self-treatment, it is better to use Paracetamol instead of ibuprofen."

WHO's recommendation came after Olivier V?ran, France's Minister of Health, stated that the administration of ibuprofen or similar anti-inflammatory drugs could worsen COVID-19 infection.

The British medical journal The Lancet recently introduced a hypothesis that anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen may promote the action of certain enzymes, making COVID-19 infection easier or worsening symptoms.

Minister V?ran urged, "If you have a fever, take Paracetamol," and advised, "Patients already undergoing anti-inflammatory treatment should consult their doctors."

However, experts warned that acetaminophen (Tylenol) can cause liver damage if taken in large amounts, so the recommended dosage must be strictly followed.

British health authorities recently revised their over-the-counter medication recommendations related to suspected COVID-19 symptoms, BBC reported.

BBC explained that both ibuprofen and acetaminophen have antipyretic effects for symptoms like the flu, but concerns have been raised that non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen may cause side effects in COVID-19 patients with asthma or cardiovascular diseases.

The UK's National Health Service (NHS) had previously recommended both ibuprofen and acetaminophen but recently changed its guidance.

NHS stated, "There is currently no strong evidence that ibuprofen worsens COVID-19," but advised, "Until we have more information, use Paracetamol to treat coronavirus symptoms unless your doctor tells you that Paracetamol is unsuitable for you."