Bath student nearly died after accidental paracetamol overdose caused organ failure

A 20-year-old student from Bath narrowly escaped death after suffering multiple organ failure triggered by an accidental paracetamol overdose. Riley Lubas, who was in his first year studying creative media, developed a severe cold in March 2025 and unknowingly took two different over-the-counter medicines containing paracetamol.

After a few days, Riley began experiencing intense stomach pains and was unable to keep any food down. Following advice from NHS 111, he attended the emergency department at Royal United Hospital (RUH), where tests revealed serious liver damage.

Riley’s parents, Chris and Kate Lubas, travelled from their home in Newport, Wales, to be with him. Initially, doctors suspected hepatitis, but his condition rapidly deteriorated overnight. By early morning, Riley was transferred to the intensive care unit (ICU) and subsequently moved to King’s College Hospital in London, where he was placed on life support following multiple organ failure.

Despite being listed at the top of the UK’s liver transplant list, complications with his heart delayed surgery. However, during this period, his liver showed unexpected signs of recovery. Within two weeks, Riley was removed from life support and began relearning how to walk and speak after a tracheostomy.

Chris Lubas commented, “It was unbelievable to see his improvement. The doctors thought his youth and general health helped his liver regenerate. We are incredibly grateful to the medical teams who cared for him.”

Riley has since returned to normal life and works as a pub bartender. In September 2026, his parents completed a 50km hike across the Gower Peninsula to raise funds for the ICU at King’s College Hospital and to raise awareness about the risks of paracetamol overdose.

Chris added, “We hope this encourages more prominent warning labels on paracetamol packaging to prevent similar incidents, especially among young people.”