Arthritis patients are still using painkillers despite being warned they are risking their health.
Almost half – or 45 per cent – of sufferers are continuing to use paracetamol to ease discomfort in their joints, according to a new survey.
However, a study published last year revealed that the over-the-counter drug had no effect on arthritis pain.
The University of Bern showed that the drug does not help osteoarthritis.
Experts have also been concerned about the risk to health that could come with long-term use of paracetamol.
One third of those surveyed by GOPO took painkillers for more than two months, while a fifth had used them for more than three months.
Most worryingly, one individual had been using painkillers for 29 years.
However, academic reviews and international guidelines now suggest that there are concerns over toxicity with long-term use.
A UK study reviewing 1.2 million general practice records found a 28 per cent increase in mortality in those taking paracetamol.
There was also a 50 per cent increase when paracetamol was used in combination with ibuprofen.
The same research also found a 36 per cent increased risk of upper gastrointestinal (GI) events, a 14 per cent increase in heart attacks, and a 20 per cent increase in the risk of renal failure with paracetamol use.
“Now the side effects of paracetamol are well documented it is imperative that we look at safer, long term alternatives for those living with joint pain,” said Dr Rod Hughes, consultant rheumatologist.
“One such option could be the galactolipid GOPO, which has been shown in randomised, placebo controlled clinical trials to significantly reduce arthritis joint pain and reduce consumption of paracetamol by 40 per cent.”
There are currently 10 million arthritis sufferers in the UK, according to the NHS.
The condition causes pain and inflammation of the joint.
Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are the two most common types.