Paracetamol

Paracetamol

Uses

Paracetamol is used in the treatment of reducing fever, and relieving pain such as headache, pain during menstruation, arthralgia, myalgia, dental pain and post operative pain.

How it Works

Paracetamol inhibits and blocks the production of pain and inflammation-causing chemicals called prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are found throughout the body, but paracetamol mainly works on those in the brain that are responsible for pain and fever.

Common Side effects

Patients who take Paracetamol may suffer from such side effects;

Allergic reaction,
Liver damage,
Diarrhoea

Introduction

Paracetamol, also known as acetaminophen is a commonly used medicine for the treatment of fever. It also acts as a pain reliever. Paracetamol helps to ease moderate pain and controls high temperature in the body. It is easily available in the market and does not require a doctor's prescription. Paracetamol is mostly available in the form of tablets. It is an analgesic which can be given to adults as well as children.

Use

Paracetamol is a tablet that needs to be consumed orally. In case a person does not consult a doctor before use, then it is recommended to read the instructions on the product package. In case of high fever, it is better to consult a doctor before the intake of acetaminophen. It is better to swallow the whole tablet along with a glass of water. It is advisable not to chew or crush the tablet as this will release the drugs into the body at once. Also, do not split the tablet unless advised by a physician.

Dosage and administration

Usually, doctors recommend 500 mg of this medication to be taken by an adult every 4 to 6 hours, depending on the severity of illness. In case of acute illness, 650 mg of this tablet is usually prescribed for the patient. For children above 10 years of age, a 500 mg dose should be continued every 6 hours. It is important to leave a minimum gap of four hours between the doses. It is better to take the medicine after food. Overdose of this tablet may affect the liver. In case you miss a dose, avoid taking two doses together, just skip the missed dose and continue to take the medicine as per normal.

Warning

Side effects

The side effects from the intake of this tablet include:-

Storage

Paracetamol has to be kept at room temperature away from sunlight, moisture and extreme heat. It should also be kept out of the reach of children and pets