Paracetamol is a medicine that many of us run to the pharmacy to get when we have a headache , a body ache, or a slight fever. As we all know, Panadol is also a medicine of this type. Although this is a very useful and safe medicine, there is a way to use it. Even this simple medicine can be very dangerous if taken incorrectly. So today, let's talk about this acetaminophen or paracetamol.
Simply put, what is this medicine?
Acetaminophen is a medicine that is used to relieve mild to moderate pain . For example, for headaches, toothaches, and body aches. It is also used to reduce fever . This medicine is available under various brand names in our country, of which Panadol is the most famous.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking medicine
Before you start taking this medicine, you should definitely discuss these issues with your doctor, as using paracetamol with these conditions can be dangerous.
- If you are a frequent drinker: Combining paracetamol with alcohol can cause a lot of damage to the liver.
- If you have liver disease: A person with a weak liver may not be able to tolerate paracetamol.
- If you have allergies to paracetamol or other medicines: Tell us if you have ever had a rash, itching, or difficulty breathing after taking any medicine.
- If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant: It is important to talk to your doctor about this as well.
- If you are a breastfeeding mother: Seek medical advice about this as well.
How exactly do you use this medicine?
Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Always follow the instructions on the medicine package or as directed by your doctor. Take the medicine at the prescribed time. Never take more than the prescribed dose or more often than prescribed.
You need to be very careful when giving this medicine to children. Although it is sometimes prescribed for children over 6 years of age, there are special precautions. Therefore , when giving it to children, be sure to ask a doctor and give the correct dosage according to the child's weight.
What to do if you overdose on medicine?
This is very important. If you think you have taken too much paracetamol, even if you have no symptoms, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately . Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Taking too much paracetamol can cause serious liver damage, so prompt treatment is very important.
This medicine is for you only. Do not share your medicine with others.
Things to be aware of and side effects when taking medication
There are some things we need to be aware of when taking paracetamol. The table below provides a clear understanding of these.
| Opportunity | What to do and what to know |
|---|---|
| Side effects that require immediate medical attention | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the lips, tongue, face or throat. |
| Symptoms of liver injury | Pain in the upper right side of the stomach, loss of appetite, nausea, light-colored stools, dark yellow or brown urine, yellowing of the eyes or skin, and extreme fatigue. |
| Blisters or changes in the skin | Skin redness, blistering, peeling (even inside the mouth). |
| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Other minor features | Headache, nausea, insomnia, stomach upset. |
One more thing...
Most importantly, do not take any other medicine containing paracetamol with this one. Some combination products for colds and coughs may also contain paracetamol. So read the label carefully before taking any medicine. If in doubt, ask your doctor.
Frequently asked questions about paracetamol
What is the maximum amount of paracetamol an adult can take in a day?
The current recommended maximum dose is 4000 milligrams (4000 mg) in 24 hours. That's 8 500mg tablets. But it's best to take only the minimum amount needed for your pain or fever. It's not advisable to take the maximum dose all the time.
Can you take paracetamol and ibuprofen together?
It is not a good idea to take these two medicines at the same time. But you can take them alternately. For example, if you took paracetamol at 10 am, you can take ibuprofen around 2 pm. Always follow the dosage instructions on the medicine label.
Is paracetamol a blood thinner?
No. Paracetamol does not thin the blood like aspirin. However, if you are taking a blood thinner like warfarin, taking paracetamol continuously and in high doses may increase the risk of bleeding. In such cases, talk to your doctor.
Does taking paracetamol make you sleepy?
Regular Paracetamol will not make you sleepy. However, some types of Paracetamol have antihistamines added to them that help you sleep (e.g. Panadol Night). Taking such a medicine can help you sleep.
Does paracetamol reduce swelling?
No. Paracetamol is not an anti-inflammatory drug. It only controls pain and fever. However, very rarely, swelling can occur as a side effect of paracetamol. If you feel swelling in areas such as the face, throat, lips, or limbs, stop taking the medicine immediately and see a doctor.
Take-Home Message
- Paracetamol is a very safe and useful medicine if used properly.
- Never exceed the recommended dosage. The maximum for an adult is 4000mg in 24 hours, and it is best to take the minimum amount needed.
- When taking paracetamol, do not take it with other cough or cold medicines that contain paracetamol. Always read the label.
- Avoid taking paracetamol if you drink alcohol. Do not take it without medical advice if you have liver disease.
- If you accidentally take too much medicine, go to a hospital's Emergency Department (ETU) immediately, even if you have no symptoms.
- This is not a medicine that reduces swelling. It is only for pain and fever.
- If you have any doubts or questions, always ask your doctor.
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