Paracetamol-Uses & Its Side-Effects

Paracetamol, also known as acetaminophen (mainly in the U.S. and Canada), is a widely used medicine that acts as a pain reliever (analgesic) and fever reducer (antipyretic). It is commonly used for mild to moderate pain and fever and is available over the counter.

📋 General Information

1. Other name: Acetaminophen (U.S., Canada).
2. Drug class: Analgesic and antipyretic.
3. Formulations: Tablets, capsules, syrups, suspensions, suppositories, and IV forms.
4. Common brand names: Tylenol, Panadol, Crocin, Calpol, etc.
5. WHO Essential Medicine: Recognized for its effectiveness and safety.

💊 Uses of Paracetamol

1. Relieves pain such as:
   • Headaches
   • Toothaches
   • Muscle pain
   • Back pain
   • Menstrual cramps
   • Joint pain (e.g., arthritis)
2. Reduces fever (commonly used for flu, infections, or post-vaccination).
3. Used in combination with other drugs (like antihistamines or caffeine) in cold/flu medications.

⚙️ How It Works (Mechanism of Action)

1. Central action: Inhibits prostaglandin production in the brain.
2. Reduces pain: Blocks pain signals in the central nervous system.
3. Reduces fever: Acts on the hypothalamus to lower body temperature.
4. Minimal anti-inflammatory action: Not as effective as NSAIDs for inflammation.

🧪 Dosage Guidelines

• Adults:
  • 500 mg to 1000 mg every 4–6 hours.
  • Maximum: 4000 mg (4 g) in 24 hours.
• Children:
  • Dosage based on weight (usually 10–15 mg/kg per dose).
• Do not exceed the recommended daily dose.

⚠️ Side Effects and Safety

1. Generally safe at normal doses.
2. Liver toxicity is the most serious risk with overdose.
3. Rare side effects: Allergic reactions, rashes, low blood cell count.
4. No stomach irritation, unlike NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, aspirin).
5. Safe during pregnancy (under medical advice).

🧯 Overdose Risks

1. Overdose danger: More than 7.5–10 g/day in adults.
2. Symptoms:
   • Nausea, vomiting
   • Abdominal pain
   • Jaundice (yellow skin/eyes)
   • Confusion or coma (severe cases)
3. Antidote: N-acetylcysteine (NAC), most effective within 8–10 hours.
4. Seek immediate medical help in case of overdose.

⚡ Interactions and Precautions

1. Avoid alcohol: Increases liver damage risk.
2. Watch for other medicines containing paracetamol (e.g., cold/flu meds).
3. Long-term use with blood thinners (like warfarin) may increase bleeding risk.

📚 Key Facts

• Discovered: In the 1800s, used widely since the 1950s.
• One of the most used medicines globally.
• Included in WHO’s List of Essential Medicines.
• Often recommended for people who can’t tolerate NSAIDs.