Paracetamol/Acetaminophen

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.