Paracetamol / Acetaminophen
SHARE
Molecule Summary
| Uses | Pain and fever |
| Therapy | Analgesic/Antipyretic |
| Side Effects | Nausea, vomiting, headache, skin rashes, constipation, itching, insomnia (difficulty in sleeping), and blisters |
Medicines
available
19k pincodes
Molecule Description
Paracetamol / Acetaminophen is a widely used and trusted medicine for relieving pain and reducing fever. It helps manage various types of pain, including headache, toothache, menstrual cramps, muscle pain, joint pain, and discomfort from the common cold or flu. It is also effective in lowering high body temperature caused by infections or other illnesses.
This medicine works by blocking the release of certain chemicals in the brain that cause pain and fever. As a result, it provides quick relief and helps you feel better quickly. Paracetamol / Acetaminophen is gentle on the stomach when taken as directed, making it suitable for most adults and teenagers. However, it is important to follow the dosage instructions carefully for safe and effective results.
Always take Paracetamol / Acetaminophen exactly as prescribed by your doctor or as mentioned on the label. It can be taken with or without food, but taking it after a meal helps reduce the chance of stomach upset. Do not exceed the recommended dose, and do not take more than the maximum daily dose mentioned on the label or advised by your doctor. Overdosing can harm your liver, so it's important to follow medical advice strictly.
Inform your doctor if you have liver or kidney problems, or if you regularly consume alcohol, as these conditions can increase the risk of side effects. It's also important to let your doctor know about any other medicines or supplements you are taking to prevent drug interactions. Mild side effects, such as nausea or fatigue, are rare but can occur in sensitive individuals.
Paracetamol / Acetaminophen is safe for short-term use, but if your pain or fever does not improve within a few days, consult your doctor for further evaluation. Store the medicine in a cool, dry place, away from children's reach. Using Paracetamol / Acetaminophen responsibly can help you recover quickly and maintain your comfort while you're ill.
Uses
- Paracetamol / Acetaminophen is primarily used as an effective fever reducer for adults and children above 12 years.
- It also provides quick relief from migraines and headaches (stress-related and tension).
- In a few cases, Paracetamol / Acetaminophen is used to treat body aches, fever, and general discomfort caused by cold and flu.
- Some doctors prescribe it to treat toothaches, minor joint discomfort, mild to moderate back pain, and soreness after immunisations.
- Paracetamol / Acetaminophen also helps in managing period-related cramps and discomfort.
- Paracetamol / Acetaminophen can be used for ear pain relief. However, it only treats the symptom of pain, not the underlying cause of the earache.
Contraindications
When should one not use Paracetamol / Acetaminophen
- It is advised not to use Paracetamol / Acetaminophen if you have an allergy or hypersensitivity to paracetamol or any component of the medicine.
- If you are suffering from severe kidney disease, severe liver disease, liver failure, elevated liver enzymes, chronic or severe malnutrition, or dehydration.
Side effects
Common side effects of this drug are:
In most cases, individuals tolerate Paracetamol / Acetaminophen when taken as directed. In very few cases, side effects may occur; when they do, seek immediate medical attention. Side effects that may occur include nausea, vomiting, headache, skin rashes, constipation, itching, insomnia (difficulty in sleeping) and blisters.
Precautions and Warnings
Pregnancy
Breast Feeding
Driving
Alcohol
Other General Warnings
Talk to your doctor if
- You have a history of liver disease, kidney disease, or heart disease.
- You have high blood pressure.
- You are taking any other medications or products that contain paracetamol.
- You are consuming too much alcohol or consuming alcohol regularly.
- You are suffering from chronic malnutrition.
Mode of Action
How Does It Work?
- Paracetamol / Acetaminophen works through a dual mechanism. For pain, it works by blocking the brain's pain signals and reducing the production of chemicals (prostaglandins) that cause pain and inflammation.
- To lower a fever, it acts on the hypothalamus, the part of your brain that functions as the body's thermostat. This helps reset your internal temperature to a normal level, efficiently bringing down the fever by promoting heat loss through sweating.
- After taking Paracetamol / Acetaminophen, you can expect to feel relief relatively quickly, as it begins to work within 30 to 60 minutes. The medicine reaches its maximum effectiveness, providing peak relief from pain and fever, between one and three hours after consumption.
- The effects of a single dose are designed to last for a duration of four to six hours, helping you stay comfortable before another dose may be necessary.
Interactions
Interactions with other drugs
Interactions with food items
Paracetamol / Acetaminophen can be taken with or without food. However, if you have a sensitive stomach, taking it with a meal or a small snack can help prevent potential stomach upset or nausea.
Dosage
Overdose
An overdose occurs when you take more than the maximum recommended daily dose of Paracetamol / Acetaminophen. This is a very serious situation that can lead to severe liver damage and is considered a medical emergency. The symptoms of an overdose can include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, and a loss of appetite. If you suspect an overdose has occurred, you must act immediately. Go to the nearest hospital emergency room or contact your doctor without delay. It is critical that you do not wait for symptoms to appear, as prompt medical attention is essential for effective treatment.
Missed a Dose
If you forget to take a dose of Paracetamol / Acetaminophen, what you do next depends on when you remember. If it has only been a short while, you can take the medicine as soon as you remember and then ensure your next dose is at least 4-6 hours later. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose entirely and continue with your regular schedule. Under no circumstances should you ever take a double dose to compensate for a missed dose, as this can increase the risk of side effects.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Articles
View All
Did you find this helpful?
References:
Explore More at Pharmeasy
Why trust PharmEasy?
# ONE OF INDIA'S MOST TRUSTED HEALTHCARE PLATFORM
CODAvailable
100%Genuine Medicine
30 DAYReturn Policy
Making medicines affordable, authentic, and easily accessible across India
700+100% Genuine & verified medicines
70,000+Medicine orders everyday
70 MillionTotal customer served
70 MillionDelivery hubs & fulfillment centre
7000Trained & trusted delivery partners
