Acetaminophen, widely known as paracetamol and sold under brand names like Tylenol and Panadol, may do more than just relieve pain. A study suggests that the commonly used over-the-counter drug could influence decision-making by increasing risk-taking behaviour. The findings were published in Social Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience.

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Researchers at The Ohio State University found that individuals who took acetaminophen exhibited a reduced sense of caution in risky situations compared to those who did not.  

Study highlights changes in decision-making

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The study, involving over 500 university students, examined how a single 1,000 mg dose of acetaminophen affected risk perception. Participants engaged in a computerised balloon-pumping task where they could earn virtual money by inflating a balloon—but risked losing it all if the balloon burst. Those who took acetaminophen pumped the balloons more aggressively and experienced more bursts than the placebo group, indicating a greater tolerance for risk.  

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Less anxiety, more risk-taking?

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Lead researcher Baldwin Way suggested that acetaminophen dulls the negative emotions associated with risk. 
"Acetaminophen seems to make people feel less negative emotion when they consider risky activities – they just don't feel as scared,” he explained. 

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Similar effects were observed in surveys where participants rated the riskiness of various hypothetical scenarios, such as betting money on sports or driving without a seatbelt.  

Possible psychological and biological links

While the study does not confirm real-world implications, it raises concerns about how acetaminophen may influence decision-making beyond physical pain relief. Researchers speculate that the drug might lower anxiety levels, leading to more risk-taking behaviour.