Paracetamol comes to mind when we have a minor ache, a headache, or a fever, right? We often go to the pharmacy and ask for these pills. But did you know that there are different types of paracetamol? Among them, there is a special type that is said to "work for 8 hours". Today we are talking about this long-acting acetaminophen - that is, paracetamol pills. Let's learn more about how to use these exactly, what are the risks, and what to be careful about.
What is an extended-release pill?
Simply put, this is also acetaminophen, that is, the same paracetamol we know. But what's special about this one is that this pill is made in a way that the medicine is released into the body gradually. While a regular paracetamol pill dissolves in 4-6 hours, one pill of this type can control pain for a long time, about 8 hours .
For this reason, doctors often recommend these for conditions like arthritis and persistent muscle pain. It is also a great convenience for the patient, as they do not have to take pills all the time.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
Before deciding if this medication is right for you, it's important to tell your doctor about these things. Don't hide them, because they're very important for your safety.
- If you are a regular drinker: This is the most important thing. The damage to the liver can be very serious when combined with alcohol. So tell your doctor the truth.
- If you have liver disease: This medicine may be dangerous for someone who already has a weak liver.
- If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant: Talk to your doctor about this and make a decision.
- If you are a breastfeeding mother.
- If you have previously had an allergic reaction to paracetamol or any other medicine or food.
How exactly do you use this medicine?
The way you use this medicine is very important. There is one thing in particular that you need to remember.
These types of tablets should never be broken, crushed, or chewed. The tablet should be swallowed whole with a glass of water.
Because if you do that, all the medicine that the monks have been trying to absorb for 8 hours will enter the body at once. This can lead to an overdose, which can cause dangerous side effects and liver damage. Therefore, use the pill exactly as directed on the label or as directed by your doctor. Take it at the right time, in the right amount.
Special attention to overdose
Don't even think, "The pain is still there, it's okay to take another pill." Taking too much paracetamol can cause serious, irreversible damage to the liver and be life-threatening.
If you think you have accidentally taken too much medicine, even if you have no symptoms, do not panic and do not delay, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . The most important thing is to act quickly.
Other things that may interact with this medicine (Interactions)
This medicine may interact with other things you are taking while taking it. Therefore, inform your doctor about all the medicines you are taking and your habits.
| Colliding material | Why is it risky? |
|---|---|
| Alcohol | It can cause serious liver damage. Avoid alcohol completely while taking this medication. |
| Other medicines containing paracetamol | Many cold and flu remedies also contain paracetamol. Taking these together can lead to an unintentional overdose. So read the label carefully before taking any other medicine. |
| Drugs like Imatinib and Isoniazid | These are medicines used to treat conditions such as cancer and tuberculosis. These can interact with paracetamol. Tell your doctor about all the medicines you are taking. |
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medicine, this one can cause side effects in some people. Some are serious, some are common.
| Side effect | Description |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that should be reported to your doctor or ETU immediately | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing. |
| 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, unusual tiredness. |
| Serious skin reactions | Skin redness, blistering, peeling (even inside the mouth). |
| Things that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Headache | A general headache may occur. |
| Nausea/stomach discomfort | You may feel a slight feeling of nausea or discomfort. |
| Insomnia | Some people may experience sleep disturbances. |
How should you store your medicine?
This is also very simple. Keep the medicine out of reach of children and pets , such as in a cupboard. Store it at room temperature, in a dry place that is not too hot or humid. It is not good to keep it in the bathroom. Be sure to throw away expired medicine.
Take-Home Message
- These are extended-release tablets. Never break, crush, or chew these tablets. Swallow them whole.
- Never take more than the doctor recommends. Paracetamol overdose is very dangerous for the liver.
- If you suspect that you have taken too much medication by mistake, go to the hospital's Emergency Department (ETU) immediately, even if you do not feel any discomfort.
- Avoid alcohol completely while taking this medicine.
- Be sure to tell your doctor about your liver condition, drinking habits, and all other medications you take.
- If you are taking other fever or cold medications, check the label to see if they also contain paracetamol.
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