Paracetamol

Paracetamol (Panadol, Calpol, Alvedon) is an analgesic and antipyretic drug that is used to temporarily relieve mild-to-moderate pain and fever. It is commonly included as an ingredient in cold and flu medications and is also used on its own.

Introduction

Generic name: Paracetamol

Brand names: Panadol, Calpol, Tylenol, Alvedon

Drug class: Miscellaneous analgesics

Uses

  • Pain relief

  • Treatment of Fever

  • Tension headache

  • Migraine

  • Backache

  • Rheumatic and muscle pain

  • Period pain (dysmenorrhea)

  • Colds and flu symptoms

  • Sore throat

  • Sinus pain

  • Post-operative pain

Benefits

Dolo 650 Tablet is a common painkiller for treating aches and pains. It is widely used and rarely causes any side effects if taken properly. To get the most benefits, take it as prescribed. Do not take more or for longer than needed as that can be dangerous.

Directions for use

  • Always use exactly as your doctor or pharmacist tells you to

  • Always read the instructions on your medication before taking it

  • Do not take more than the recommended dose. Check the instructions for the paracetamol product you have. The strength and recommended dose among for different paracetamol-containing products.

  • Paracetamol may be taken every 4 to 6 hours. Leave at least 4 hours between doses.

  • Do not take more than four doses in 24 hours.

  • Do not take for more than 3 days, unless your doctor tells you to

  • Contact your healthcare professional if your symptoms get worse or do not improve

How it works?

Dolo 650 Tablet is an analgesic (pain reliever) and anti-pyretic (fever reducer). It works by blocking the release of certain chemical messengers that cause pain and fever.

Side effects

Serious side effects of paracetamol include:

Allergic reactions, which may be severe and include:

  • Skin rashes, itching or hives

  • Swelling of the throat, tongue or face

  • Shortness of breath or wheezing

  • Skin rash or peeling, or mouth ulcers

  • Breathing problems. This is more likely if you have experienced them before when taking other painkillers such as ibuprofen and aspirin

  • Unexplained bruising or bleeding or becoming exhausted. Getting more infections than usual.

  • Liver problems. Nausea, sudden weight loss, loss of appetite and yellowing of the eyes and skin can occur

  • If you get any of the rare side effects listed above, stop taking the medicine and contact your doctor immediately.

Storage

  • Keep out of sight and reach of children

  • Do not use the medicine after the expiry date

  • Store below 77°F (25°C) unless instructed otherwise

  • Store paracetamol suppositories in a cool, dry place below 77°F (25°C) and out of direct sunlight

  • Store paracetamol effervescent tablets below 86 7°F (30°C). Use within 1 month of first opening the tube. Do not use the effervescent tablets if you notice visible signs of deterioration, such as brown or black spots on the tablets, or bulging or discolored tablets.

  • Store paracetamol solution for infusion below 86 7°F (30°C). Do not refrigerate or freeze. Store in the original package and protect from light.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor or pharmacist about all the medicines you take, including prescription and OTC medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements before taking this medication. Especially tell your doctor if you take:

  • Blood thinning medications (anticoagulants) such as warfarin and you need to take a pain reliever daily. Occasional doses of paracetamol can be taken with anticoagulants

  • Medications to help relieve nausea (metoclopramide or domperidone)

  • Medications to treat high cholesterol (cholestyramine)

  • Medications to treat epilepsy (lamotrigine)

  • Medications to treat tuberculosis (isoniazide)

  • Medication to treat fever or mild pain (aspirin, salicylamide)

  • Barbiturate and tricyclic antidepressants to treat depression (amitriptyline)

  • A medication to treat gout called probenecid

  • A medication used to treat bacterial infections called chloramphenicol

  • A medication used in HIV infections and AIDS called zidovudine

Subscribe For More Content