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Paracetamol – dosage and side effects

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On June 9, 2023

Paracetamol, also known as acetaminophen, is a widely used drug known for its analgesic (pain-relieving) and antipyretic (fever-reducing) properties. Here’s what the medicine paracetamol does:

Pain relief:-

Paracetamol is usually used to relieve mild to moderate pain. It can help relieve a variety of pain including headaches, toothaches, menstrual cramps, muscle aches and joint pains. Although the exact mechanism of action is not fully understood, it is thought to work by blocking certain chemicals in the brain that transmit pain signals.

To reduce fever:-

Paracetamol is effective in reducing fever. It works on the brain’s temperature-regulating center, helping to reduce high body temperatures associated with common illnesses such as colds, flu and other infections. By reducing fever, it can help relieve associated discomfort and promote a more comfortable state.

Over-the-Counter Availability:-

Paracetamol is widely available without a prescription. It is commonly available in various forms, including tablets, capsules, syrups, and as an ingredient in cold and flu remedies. Its accessibility makes it a convenient option for managing mild pain and fever symptoms at home.

Generally considered safe:-

When used in prescribed and recommended doses, paracetamol is generally considered safe for most people, including children and pregnant women. However, it is important to follow the recommended dosage guidelines and not exceed the maximum daily dose to avoid possible side effects, especially regarding the liver.

Non-inflammatory:-

Unlike nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or aspirin, paracetamol does not have significant anti-inflammatory effects. It primarily acts as a pain reliever and fever reducer but does not have the same anti-inflammatory properties as NSAIDs.
It is important to note that while paracetamol can provide effective pain relief and reduce fever, it does not treat the underlying cause of the pain or fever. If your symptoms persist or worsen, or if you have specific health concerns, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and guidance.

How to take paracetamol medicine:-

When taking paracetamol medication, it is important to follow the recommended dosage instructions to ensure safe and effective use. Here are some general guidelines for taking paracetamol:

Read instructions:-

Carefully read the label or package insert of the paracetamol medicine you have. Familiarize yourself with the recommended dosage, any special instructions, and any warnings or cautions mentioned.

Determine the appropriate dose:-

The appropriate dose of paracetamol depends on factors such as age, weight and the specific formulation of the drug. Read the instructions or consult a healthcare professional to determine the correct dosage for you or the person you are administering the medication to.
Follow the recommended frequency: Pay attention to the recommended frequency of dosing. Paracetamol is usually taken every 4 to 6 hours to relieve pain or reduce fever. However, it is important not to exceed the maximum daily dose, which is usually around 4,000 mg for adults. Children’s doses are usually lower and should be based on their weight or age.

Take with water:-

Swallow the paracetamol tablet or capsule with a glass of water. Avoid crushing or chewing extended-release formulations unless directed by a healthcare professional or noted on the packaging.

Be careful with combination products:-

Be aware of the total paracetamol content if you are taking a combination product that contains paracetamol along with other active ingredients (eg, cold and flu remedies). Avoid taking multiple medicines containing paracetamol at the same time in order not to exceed the recommended daily dose.

Use suitable measuring instrument:-

When giving paracetamol to children, use the measuring device provided, such as an oral syringe or calibrated spoon, to ensure the correct dose. Avoid using household spoons, as they may not give accurate measurements.

Consider food intake:-

Paracetamol can be taken with or without food. However, taking it with food can help reduce the chance of stomach upset or gastrointestinal discomfort.

Avoid alcohol:-

It is recommended to avoid consuming alcohol while taking paracetamol, as alcohol can increase the risk of liver damage.

Check your response:-

It is always best to consult a healthcare professional regarding the correct dosage and usage for your specific situation.

What harm does paracetamol medicine do?

প্যারাসিটামল খাওয়ার নিয়ম ও পার্শ্বপ্রতিক্রিয়া

Although paracetamol (acetaminophen) is generally safe when used as directed, taking too much or using it incorrectly can have harmful effects, especially on the liver. Here are some potential harms associated with paracetamol medication:-

Liver damage:-

The most significant risk of paracetamol overdose is liver damage. Taking high doses of paracetamol or taking it for a long time can overwhelm the liver’s ability to process the drug, leading to liver toxicity. Severe cases of liver damage can lead to liver failure, which can be life-threatening.

Acute overdose:-

Accidental or intentional overdose of paracetamol can be harmful. Taking a large dose or exceeding the recommended daily dose can cause excessive stress on the liver and potentially serious liver damage.

Chronic high-dose use:-

Long-term, high-dose paracetamol use can also contribute to liver damage. Exceeding the recommended daily dose on a regular basis or taking paracetamol for a long period of time can increase the risk of gradual liver toxicity.

Alcohol Interactions:-

Drinking alcohol while taking paracetamol increases the risk of liver damage. Alcohol can further stress the liver’s ability to metabolize paracetamol, making it more susceptible to damage.

Allergic reaction:-

Although rare, some individuals may experience an allergic reaction to paracetamol. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, difficulty breathing, and hives. If you develop any of these symptoms after taking paracetamol, seek medical advice immediately.
It is important to follow the recommended dosage instructions, avoid exceeding the maximum daily dose, and be careful about combining paracetamol with other medicines that may contain it as ingredients (such as cold and flu combination remedies). If you have certain health conditions, such as liver disease, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before taking paracetamol.
If you suspect a paracetamol overdose or experience any symptoms after taking paracetamol, seek immediate medical help or contact a poison control center for instructions.