Paracetamol

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.

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.

Patients who take Paracetamol may suffer from such side effects;

Allergic reaction,
Liver damage,
Diarrhoea

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.

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.

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.

It is recommended that you inform the physician in case you suffer from any allergies.Inform the doctor regarding any medical history such as liver ailments or kidney disease.This drug has some amount of sugar content hence patients suffering from diabetes must consult a doctor prior to the intake of the medicine.Pregnant ladies and breast feeding mothers should inform the doctor about their conditions prior to taking this medication.Avoid consuming alcohol while undergoing medication.

The side effects from the intake of this tablet include:-
Severe pain in the lower back.Yellowing of skin and eyes.Decrease in the amount of urine.Loss of appetite.Nausea and vomiting.Severe cramps and pain in the stomach.Fever with chills.Rashes and itching sensation on the skin.Fatigue in muscles and general weakness.Overdose may lead to liver and kidney damage.May result in low blood pressure.

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