Paracetamol is used to treat mild to moderate pain including headache, migraine, toothache, menstrual period pain, osteoarthritis pain, musculoskeletal pain, and reduced fever. It is the most commonly used pain relief medicine all over the world.
When should we take Paracetamol?
- Pains that are associated with colds and flu,
- Pain like Headache,
- Pain like Migraine,
- Pain like Toothache,
- Menstrual period pain,
- Osteoarthritis pain,
- Musculoskeletal pain,
- Reducing fever.
How to take Paracetamol?
- It is recommended to take a tablet after meals to avoid any gastrointestinal irritation.
- Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water after the meals.
- Do not crush or chew them.
- The usual dose in adults is 2 tablets every 6–8 hours when required.
- It is advised not to take more than 6 tablets in 24 hours. Taking more paracetamol could cause damage to your liver.
Side Effects of Paracetamol
- Liver damage,
- Skin rashes,
- Increased heartbeat,
- Low platelets, and Low white blood cells.
- Dark urine,
- Clay-colored stool
- Allergic skin reactions like peeling and blistering of the skin.
Composition of Paracetamol
- Paracetamol,
- Maize starch,
- Potassium sorbate,
- Purified talc,
- Stearic acid,
- Povidone, and
- Soluble starch.
When Should you consult a doctor before taking Paracetamol?
- If you have severe kidney,
- If you have severe liver problems,
- If you have a liver problem caused by alcohol,
- Do not take Paracetamol with other medications that contain paracetamol.
What happens if I take more or fewer Medicines?
- Take the missed dose as soon as possible. If it’s been too late, then you should never take a double dose at a time to make up for a missed one as it may be harmful to the liver.
- The usual dose in adults is 2 tablets every 6–8 hours when required. It is advised not to take more than 6 tablets in 24 hours. Taking more paracetamol could cause damage to your liver.
- If you get swelling of the hands, feet, ankles, face, lips, or throat which may cause difficulty in swallowing or breathing, then stop taking this medicine and go to a hospital.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Should I take Paracetamol during Pregnancy?
Paracetamol is safe to use during pregnancy at lower doses however doctor’s consultation is recommended. Consume only if prescribed by your doctor. If you are breastfeeding, It should be used only in doctor’s consultations as paracetamol passes with mother’s milk to the baby.
Is Paracetamol recommended for children?
500mg Tablets should not be given to children under 10 years of age. Children can take paracetamol as a liquid syrup from the age of 2 months, and as a tablet (including soluble tablets) from the age of 6 years. However, a doctor’s consultation is recommended.
Should I take this medicine during driving?
Safe to use before driving as it doesn’t affect awareness & muscle coordination.
Should I take this medicine while consuming alcohol?
Paracetamol and alcohol when taken together will increase the chances of liver damage. Thus it is not recommended to be taken with alcohol.
Should I take this medicine if I have a Kidney problem?
It should be used if you have kidney problems only if the doctor has prescribed it.
Should I take this medicine if I have a Liver problem?
Higher doses can stop liver functioning and thus should be used on the recommendation of doctors if you have liver diseases.
Can I use Paracetamol for relief of stomach Pain?
Stomach pain may be due to various reasons most commonly due to acidity, stomach ulcers, or gastrointestinal bleeding. So, it is advisable not to use it to relieve stomach pain, instead consult a doctor.
Can I take Paracetamol with milk?
Yes, you can take it with milk.
Does overdose decrease body temperature lower than normal?
There is no such problem reported with overdose. However, the most common problem experienced after an overdose is liver damage and skin allergic reactions. The usual dose in adults is 2 tablets every 6–8 hours when required for pain.
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