Paracetamol threatens teenagers' health: a deadly challenge spreading in Algeria.

Recently in Algeria, a dangerous challenge called the "Paracetamol Challenge" has been spreading, causing concern among parents and health authorities alike, as it has led to serious health issues and even deaths among teenagers in other countries. This challenge started spreading on social media platforms, especially TikTok, where teenagers take excessive doses of paracetamol to show off or test their tolerance, potentially resulting in catastrophic health consequences. This phenomenon, previously popular in countries like America and Europe, has recently reached Algeria, causing panic after a student in the Medea province (south of the Algerian capital) was hospitalized urgently due to severe symptoms resulting from excessive consumption of this medication. In light of this spread, the Algerian Ministry of Education issued an urgent memorandum to local officials warning of this dangerous challenge, instructing to intensify awareness campaigns among students and parents, explaining the health risks associated with excessive intake of paracetamol. The ministry called for the dissemination of medical information warning of the harms of this challenge and emphasized the need to be cautious of teenagers abusing medications without medical supervision. Dr. Mohamed Kuwash, a public health specialist, warned that this challenge could be more deadly than previous challenges like the "Blue Whale" or high-altitude jumping, noting that these phenomena often spread among teenagers seeking attention and uniqueness. Dr. Kuwash explained that paracetamol is a commonly used medication for treating various pains such as fever, headaches, and bone pain, being one of the most consumed drugs globally, but it can cause serious complications when taken in unsafe doses, especially if the normal dose is exceeded, which typically ranges from 7 to 10 grams. Symptoms of poisoning include vomiting, nausea, loss of balance, and can progress after 24 hours to include liver inflammation, heart and artery problems, skin rash, gastrointestinal bleeding, and severe stomach and intestinal pain. In severe cases, poisoning can lead to chronic diseases or even death. Dr. Kuwash emphasized the importance of being alert to this dangerous challenge, highlighting the need for families and health authorities to collaborate in educating young people about the harmful effects of these destructive phenomena, and stressed the necessity of restricting the sale of paracetamol without a prescription to ensure public health protection.