Paracetamol is a fever reducer and a pain reliever medicine. The exact mechanism of action is unknown. Paracetamol is used to treat several conditions such as headache, arthritis, muscle aches, toothache, back pain, colds, and fevers. It also relieves pain in mild arthritis but has no effect on the original inflammation as well as swelling of the joint. Paracetamol can be used for many other purposes not listed in this prescription guide. Learn more about uses of paracetamol.

Important Information

There are several forms and brands of paracetamol available now and not all brands are listed in this booklet. An overdose of paracetamol can cause serious damage, so don’t use more of this medication than recommended. The maximum amount of paracetamol for adults is 1000 mg per dose and 4000 mg daily. Taking more paracetamol could damage your liver and kidney. Talk to your doctor before taking paracetamol If you drink more than three alcoholic beverages per day and never use more than 2000 mg per day.

Before Taking Paracetamol

If you are allergic to acetaminophen or paracetamol, do not use this medication. Ask your doctor if it is safe for you to take paracetamol if you have “liver disease” or “a history of alcoholism”. It is unknown whether paracetamol can harm an unborn baby. If you are pregnant, tell your doctor or pharmacist before using this medication. This medicine can pass into breast milk, as well as may harm a nursing baby. If you are breast-feeding a baby, do not use paracetamol without telling your doctor.

What Happens If I Miss a Dose?

You may not have a dosing schedule since paracetamol is generally used only when necessary. If you use the medicine on a regular basis, use the missed dose as soon as you consider it. Skip the missed dose and use the next dose as directed if it is almost time for your next regularly scheduled dose. Don’t use additional medications to make up for the forgotten dose.

What Happens If I Overdose?

If you think you have used too much of this medicine, seek emergency medical attention. The first signs of an overdose of paracetamol include loss of appetite, vomiting, nausea, sweating and confusion or weakness. Later symptoms can include upper stomach pain, dark urine, and yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes. Click here for overdose effect of paracetamol.

What Should I Avoid?

Do not use any other over-the-counter medicine for cough, cold, allergy or pain without first consulting your doctor. Paracetamol is generally contained in several combination medicines. When you use certain products at the same time, you can accidentally use too much paracetamol. Check the label of any other medications you use to see if it contains paracetamol. While taking paracetamol, always avoid drinking alcohol. Alcohol can enhance your risk of liver and kidney damage while taking this medication.

Do not use this medicine without first talking to your doctor if you have had alcoholic liver disease (cirrhosis). You may not be able to use paracetamol for this. Tell your doctor if you have liver disease or a history of alcoholism before using paracetamol.