Paracetamol is an indispensable thing in our homes. Whether we have a slight fever, a body ache, or a headache, the first thing we think of is paracetamol, right? But have you ever seen a type of paracetamol that can be chewed like chewing gum? These are what we call acetaminophen. Actually, paracetamol is also acetaminophen. Today, we will talk in detail about these soft chews/gummies.
Simply put, what is acetaminophen?
Acetaminophen is another name for the well-known paracetamol. It is mainly used to relieve mild to moderate pain and fever . It is often prescribed for headaches, toothaches, muscle aches, and body aches that accompany the common cold.
This chewable form is very convenient for those who don't like to swallow paracetamol, which usually comes in pill form, especially young children. Children may like this more because it comes with added flavoring.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
Although this is a common medicine, people with certain health conditions should be very careful when using it. Therefore, before you use this medicine, if you have any of the conditions below, be sure to tell your doctor about it.
- Liver disease: This is very important if you have any liver disease. This is because acetaminophen is broken down in the body in the liver. If a person with a weak liver takes this medicine, it can cause further damage to the liver.
- If you drink alcohol frequently: A person who drinks alcohol frequently may already have some strain on their liver. Taking this medicine may further increase the damage to the liver.
- Diabetes: Some of these chewable tablets may have added sugar, so if you have diabetes, it's wise to ask your doctor about this.
- High blood pressure: Some painkillers can affect high blood pressure, so be sure to tell your doctor about this as well.
- Allergies to acetaminophen or other substances: Tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergy to acetaminophen (paracetamol), any other medicine, food, or preservative.
- If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant: During this time, take any medication only as directed by your doctor.
- If you are a breastfeeding mother: As the medication can pass to the baby through breast milk, seek medical advice about this as well.
How exactly do you use this?
This is not like a regular pill, so you need to be careful how you use it.
1. Chew and swallow well: This is the most important thing. This medicine should be chewed and swallowed completely. Do not swallow it with water like a pill at a time. If you do that, the medicine will not be absorbed properly.
2. Read the label: Read the instructions on the medicine packet carefully. Use it exactly as your doctor tells you or as directed on the label.
3. When giving to children: This is sometimes given to children over 12 years of age. However, do not give this medicine to young children without medical advice . The dose given to children varies according to their weight, so ask your doctor for the exact dose.
Warning: What to do if you take too much medicine? (Overdosage)
If you think you or someone else has taken more than you think, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) without delay, even if there are no symptoms. Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice. Taking too much acetaminophen can cause serious, even life-threatening, liver damage.
What if I miss a dose of medication?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take two doses at the same time, including a missed dose.
Other things that may interact with this medicine
Some medications and things can interact with acetaminophen, so it's important to tell your doctor about everything you're taking.
- Alcohol: As mentioned earlier, taking this medication with alcohol is very harmful to the liver.
- Other medicines containing acetaminophen: This is a mistake that many people make. Some cold and cough medicines (e.g. Panadol), painkillers contain paracetamol, that is, acetaminophen. If you chew this chewing gum and drink another medicine like it, the total amount of acetaminophen that enters your body will increase significantly. This is very dangerous. Therefore, before taking any other medicine, read the label and see if it contains 'Acetaminophen' or 'Paracetamol'.
- Other medications: Some medications like Imatinib and Isoniazid may interact with this.
- Tell your doctor about any other medications, vitamins, traditional medicines, and supplements you are taking.
What are the possible side effects?
Most people do not experience any major side effects from this medication. However, it is important to be aware of the possible side effects and serious conditions that can occur.
| Side effect | Description and what to do |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that should be reported to your doctor immediately | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. If this happens, seek medical attention immediately. |
| 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. These are serious symptoms. |
| Skin reactions | Redness, blistering, peeling skin (even inside the mouth) is also a condition that requires immediate attention. |
| Side effects that are usually nothing to worry about, but if they persist, you should tell your doctor. | |
| Headache | A situation that is usually avoided. |
| Nausea | Feeling uneasy in the stomach. |
| Difficulty falling asleep | It may happen to some people. |
| Stomach upset | Feeling of discomfort in the stomach. |
Where is medication safely stored and disposed of?
Security
This is very important, especially if there are small children at home.
Because these medications look like toffee or chewing gum, young children may be tricked into eating them. This can lead to serious poisoning. Therefore, be sure to keep these out of the reach of children and pets, and keep them well-closed.
It is best to store at room temperature (between 20-25 degrees Celsius). Do not use expired medicine.
Removal
Don't just throw expired, unused medications in the trash. Some medications can be harmful to the environment. Ask your doctor about the best way to dispose of them. Sometimes, they recommend removing the medication from its packaging, mixing it with something like used tea leaves or coffee grounds, sealing it tightly in a bag, and throwing it in the trash.
Take-Home Message
- Acetaminophen is the same as the paracetamol we commonly use. This chewable form is convenient for those who have difficulty swallowing pills.
- When taking this medicine, you should chew it completely and swallow it. Do not swallow it all at once.
- Never exceed the prescribed dosage and do not take it with other medicines containing paracetamol.
- Taking this medicine with alcohol can cause serious liver damage.
- If you accidentally take too much medicine, it is a medical emergency. Go to a hospital's Emergency Department (ETU) immediately.
- These are delicious and can be tempting for children. So keep them safe and out of reach of children .
- If you have any questions, always ask your doctor for advice.
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