What is Paracetamol

What is paracetamol ?

Paracetamol (acetaminophen) is a pain reliever and a fever reducer. The exact mechanism of action of is not known.Paracetamol is used to treat many conditions such as headache, muscle aches, arthritis, backache, toothaches, colds, and fevers. It relieves pain in mild arthritis but has no effect on the underlying inflammation and swelling of the joint.Paracetamol may also be used for other purposes also, which may not be listed in this article.

Dosage form of Paracetamol (acetaminophen)

Precautions before using Paracetamol

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to acetaminophen or paracetamol.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to take paracetamol if you have:

• liver disease; or
• a history of alcoholism;

It is not known whether paracetamol will harm an unborn baby. Before using paracetamol , tell your doctor if you are pregnant. This medication can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use paracetamol without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Safe way to use Paracetamol

Doctor's prescription is necessary for intake of any dose. Do not use more of this medication than is recommended. An overdose of paracetamol can cause serious harm. The maximum amount for adults is 1 gram (1000 mg) per dose and 4 grams (4000 mg) per day. Using more paracetamol could cause damage to your liver. If you drink more than three alcoholic beverages per day, talk to your doctor before taking paracetamol and never use more than 2 grams (2000 mg) per day. If you are treating a child, use a pediatric form of paracetamol . Carefully follow the dosing directions on the medicine label. Do not give the medication to a child younger than 2 years old without the advice of a doctor.

When to stop if medicine doesn't work or react

Stop using paracetamol and call your doctor if in need:

• you still have a fever after 3 days of use;
• you still have pain after 7 days of use (or 5 days if treating a child);
• you have a skin rash, ongoing headache, or any redness or swelling; or
• if your symptoms get worse, or if you have any new symptoms.

Urine glucose tests may produce false results while you are taking paracetamol . Talk to your doctor if you are diabetic and you notice changes in your glucose levels during treatment.

Store paracetamol at room temperature away from heat and moisture. The rectal suppositories can be stored at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine.

The first signs of an paracetamol overdose include loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, sweating, and confusion or weakness. Later symptoms may include pain in your upper stomach, dark urine, and yellowing of your skin or the whites of your eyes.

In the similar way side effects can be:-

• Bloody or black, tarry stools
• bloody or cloudy urine
• fever with or without chills (not present before treatment and not caused by the condition being treated)
• pain in the lower back and/or side (severe and/or sharp)
• pinpoint red spots on the skin
• skin rash, hives, or itching
• sore throat (not present before treatment and not caused by the condition being treated)
• sores, ulcers, or white spots on the lips or in the mouth
• sudden decrease in the amount of urine
• unusual bleeding or bruising
• unusual tiredness or weakness
• yellow eyes or skin

Get emergency help immediately if any of the following symptoms of overdose occur while taking acetaminophen:

Symptoms of overdose

• Diarrhea
• increased sweating
• loss of appetite
• nausea or vomiting
• stomach cramps or pain
• swelling, pain, or tenderness in the upper abdomen or stomach area