88planoAg said:
Tylenol is recommended over those pain relievers/fever reducers that are processed through the kidneys. My family uses Aleve to treat normal aches/pains/headache. Is there a reason to switch to Tylenol prior to getting sick with CV?
Ok... So this one is a little medically complicated but I will try to explain it so it makes some sense. The short answer to your question is maybe and it is a theoretical and anecdotal benefit more than a study-proven benefit to take Tylenol over NSAIDs (ibuprofen (aka Advil/Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve)).
There is some evidence that this virus may bind the ACE receptors (Angiotensin Converting Enzyme receptors) in the body as a way to get into cells. By a complicated pathway, NSAIDS increase the number of ACE receptors in the body and so there has been a recommendation that we give acetaminophen (Tylenol) instead as it does not up regulate ACE receptors in the body. The thought is that you could potentially make a person worse with NSAIDs by unintentionally increasing their ACE receptors binding sites for the virus.
Since body aches and congestion are much less intense in Covid-19 and the presenting symptoms are usually cough and fever anyway, I think it is reasonable to avoid NSAIDs for now and treat fever with Tylenol if you are worried about Covid-19.
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