Paracetamol is an ineffective solution to treat back pain and osteoarthritis (OA), despite being recommended by medical professionals, according to a new study. The report by researchers at the University of Sydney and published in the British Medical Journal reviewed 13 clinical trials and discovered that the analgesic does not improve quality of life or reduce disability. Scientists also warned that paracetamol can increase liver problems.

NICE currently recommends paracetamol for lower back pain and OA, however the analysis of over 5,000 patients revealed it was ineffective at reducing back pain and any improvement in OA in the hip or knee was not clinically important.

In response to the study, Royal Pharmaceutical Society pain management expert Professor Roger Knaggs said: “Paracetamol has been available for over 50 years and when used in normal doses for short periods, it may still benefit some individual patients.” The NHS will review its guidelines for the drug.