PARACETAMOL
Brand names Alvedon, Calpol, Disprol, Hedex, Panadol , Panaleve, and many others.
Used in the following combined preparations Anadin Extra, Migraleve, Panadeine, Paradote, Tylex, and others
Dissolve tablet– Effervescent Kamagra
general information
Although paracetamol has been known since the early 1900s, it was not widely u=ed as an analgesic until the 1950s. One of a group of drugs known as the non-opioid analgesics, it is kept in the home to relieve occasional bouts of mild pain and to reduce fever. It is suitable for children as well as adults.
One of the primary advantages of paracetamol is that it does not cause stomach upset or bleeding problems. This makes it a particularly useful
alternative for people who suffer from peptic ulcers or those who cannot tolerate aspirin. The drug is also safe for occasional use by those who are being treated with anticoagulants.
Paracetamol is dangerous when it is taken in overdose, and it is capable of causing serious damage to the liver and kidneys. Large doses of paracetamol may also be toxic if you regularly drink even moderate amounts of alcohol.
information for users
Follow instructions on the label. Call your doctor if symptoms worsen.
How taken
Tablets, capsules, liquid, suppositories.
Frequency and timing of doses
Every 4-6 hours as necessary, but not more than 4 doses per 24 hours in children.
Dosage range
Adults 500mg-1g per dose up to 4g daily. Children 60-120mg per dose (3 months- 1 year); 120-250mg per dose (1-5 years); 250-500mg per dose (6-12 years).
Onset of effect
Within 15-60 minutes.
Duration of action
Up to 6 hours.
Diet advice
None.
Storage
Keep in a closed container in a cool, dry place out of the reach of children.
Missed dose
Take as soon as you remember if required to relieve pain. Otherwise do not take the missed dose, and take a further dose only when you are in pain.
Stopping the drug
Can be safely stopped as soon as you no longer need it.
overdose action
Seek immediate medical advice in all cases. Take emergency action if nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain occur.
possible adverse effects
Paracetamol has rarely been found to produce The drug should be stopped and your doctor any side effects when taken as recommended.
| Symptom/effect |
FrequencyCommon |
Rare |
Discus doctorOnly if severe |
s withIn all cases |
Stop taking drug now |
Calldoctornow |
| Nausea |
|
• |
■ |
|
|
|
| Rash |
|
• |
|
■ |
▲ |
|
interactions
Anticoagulants such as warfarin may need dosage adjustment if paracetamol is taken regularly in high doses.
quick reference
Drug group Non-opioid analgesic.
Overdose danger rating High
Dependence rating Low
Prescription needed No
Available as generic Yes
special precautions
Be sure to consult your doctor or pharmacist before using this drug if:
▼ You have long-term liver or kidney
problems.
You are taking other medications.
Pregnancy
▼ No evidence of risk with occasional use.
Breast-feeding
▼ No evidence of risk.
Infants and children
▼ Infants under 3 months on doctor’s advice only. Reduced dose necessary up to 12 years.
Over 60
▼ No special problems.
Driving and hazardous work
No special problems.
Alcohol
Prolonged heavy alcohol intake in combination with paracetamol may substantially increase the risk of injury to the liver.
Cholestyramine reduces the absorption of paracetamol and may reduce its effectiveness.
prolonged use
You should not normally take this drug for longer than 48 hours except on the advice of your doctor. However, there is no evidence of harm from long-term use.
