Paracetamol/Acetaminophen
Analgesic/AntipyreticUses of Paracetamol/Acetaminophen
Paracetamol (Acetaminophen) is a widely used analgesic and antipyretic medicine used to relieve mild-to-moderate pain and reduce fever.
It is commonly used for:
- Fever reduction: Lowers elevated body temperature associated with viral infections, colds, flu, and post-vaccination fever.
- Mild-to-moderate pain: Relieves headaches, toothaches, muscle aches, back pain, and sore throats.
- Menstrual discomfort (dysmenorrhoea): Eases painful cramps and body aches associated with menstrual periods.
- Joint and osteoarthritis pain: Provides pain relief for mild-to-moderate joint pain and discomfort in osteoarthritis.
Side effects of Paracetamol/Acetaminophen
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Constipation
- Diarrhoea
- Indigestion
How Paracetamol/Acetaminophen works
- Paracetamol is an analgesic (pain reliever) and antipyretic (fever reducer) medicine.
- It works primarily in the central nervous system by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, which are chemical messengers responsible for signaling pain and promoting fever in response to injury or illness.
- By blocking prostaglandin synthesis in the brain and resetting the heat-regulating centre in the hypothalamus, Paracetamol effectively raises the pain threshold and increases heat loss through sweating and skin blood vessel dilation, thereby lowering fever and relieving body pain.
Certified content
Written By
MBBS
Reviewed By
MBBS, DNB (OBGY)
Expert Advice
Dosage Forms Available
- Paracetamol can be taken orally (tablet, capsule, syrup, oral solution, or suspension), intravenous (infusion), and rectal (suppository) routes.
Age and Dose Restrictions
- It is intended for adults and children with appropriate dose calculation.
Contraindications
- It is contraindicated in patients with a history of allergy to paracetamol.
Other Medications to Avoid
- Avoid taking anticoagulants (warfarin), cholesterol-lowering medications (cholestyramine), prokinetic agents (metoclopramide and domperidone), anticonvulsants (carbamazepine), and antibiotics (flucloxacillin) with this medicine. These medications may alter the safety and effectiveness of Paracetamol.
Overdose and Missed Dose
- Overdose of Paracetamol is capable of causing liver damage (elevated liver enzymes) when the oral dose exceeds 10 gm or more. The common symptoms seen with overdosing are nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. These symptoms need to be managed as an emergency in a hospital setting. Therefore, strict adherence to the prescribed dose is essential.
- If you miss its dose, take it as soon as you remember. But, if the next dose is near, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing regime.
Management of Side Effects
- Take this medicine with food to reduce gastrointestinal side effects, and continue taking it as prescribed. If side effects worsen or persist, consult your doctor for a possible treatment plan adjustment.
Use in Driving and Operating Machinery
- It is unlikely to impair the mental alertness or coordination required while driving.
Use in Pregnancy and Lactation
- Caution is advised while taking this medicine during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Caution in Other Conditions
- Caution is advised in patients with kidney and liver impairment. It is also advised to take caution if you have a liver problem caused by alcohol.
Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations
- Avoid alcohol consumption, as it may increase the risk of liver toxicity and adverse side effects.
- Adequate hydration is an essential component in managing fever, which should be ensured as a priority.
- High-grade fever (>104 degrees Fahrenheit) requires cold water sponging, paracetamol, and immediate admission to a hospital.
Frequently asked questions
Is Paracetamol a painkiller?
Yes, it is a painkiller that helps reduce mild to moderate pain associated with various conditions.
How much time does Paracetamol take to work?
It typically shows their effects within 30 minutes to an hour after ingestion. However, individual responses may vary.
Is Paracetamol a habit-forming medicine?
No, it is not habit-forming and is generally safe when used as directed.
Does Paracetamol affect fertility?
It is not known to impair female fertility.
Is Paracetamol available over the counter, or do I need a prescription?
It is available over the counter for pain and fever management. However, it is recommended not to exceed the daily dosage to avoid its side effects. Patients with impaired kidney and liver function should also cautiously take it.
How long does the effect of Paracetamol last?
It may relieve pain for up to a few hours. However, the duration of effect of this medication can vary with the individual and the severity of the condition being treated.
Can Paracetamol be taken for stomach pain?
It can be effective in relieving painful menstruation. However, its use for stomach pain should only be done when a doctor advises.
What is Paracetamol used for?
Paracetamol is used to relieve mild to moderate pain and reduce fever. It helps with headaches, toothaches, muscle aches, joint pain, menstrual cramps, back pain, and symptoms of cold or flu. Overuse can cause serious liver damage, so always follow the recommended dose and consult a doctor if needed.
Paracetamol/Acetaminophen in other salts
List of medicines for Paracetamol/Acetaminophen
Company
About UsHealth ArticleHealth StoriesHealth LibraryDiseases & Health ConditionsAyurvedaUnderstanding Generic MedicinesAll MedicinesAll BrandsNeed HelpFAQSecuritySavings CalculatorAdvertise with UsSubscribe
Registered Office Address
Grievance Officer
Download Truemeds
Contact Us
Our customer representative team is available 7 days a week from 9 am - 9 pm.
v4.28.13
2026 - Truemeds | All rights reserved. Our content is for informational purposes only. See additional information.
Our Payment Partners
