In August 2019 researchers from Iraq published the results of their study to assess the effect of taking vitamin C or omega-3 supplementation at the same time as paracetamol. There is increasing concern over the accessability of paracetamol and/or lack of awareness that paracetamol can cause liver damage. Paracetamol-induced liver damage is a big problem today which is why many researchers are interested in finding out whether any of the naturally available antioxidants, if taken at the same time as paracetamol, are able to reduce the liver toxicity. Six healthy volunteers (average age 29 years) took part in the study, of which there were three parts. Each part of the study was preceded by overnight fasting. Firstly the individuals took a single dose of paracetamol, then 6 days later a dose of paracetamol with vitamin C, and then following a further 6 days a dose of paracetamol with omega-3. Saliva samples were collected and analysed on each occasion. Results showed that the vitamin C appeared to significantly increase the level of paracetamol found in the saliva 30 minutes following intake. This was in contrast to when the paracetamol was taken on its own or with omega-3. No significant differences in the paracetamol levels was seen between the individuals at 60, 90, 120 and 150 min following all treatments.
Jaccob AA et al. Vitamin C, omega-3 and paracetamol pharmacokinetic interactions using saliva specimens as determiners. J Basic Clin Physiol Pharmacol. 2019 Aug 6;30(5).