Paracetamol, also known as acetaminophen, is a common painkiller used to treat aches and pains and to reduce high fevers¹. It is available without a prescription and comes in several forms, including tablets, capsules, syrup, powder, and suppositories².

Key Facts about Paracetamol

• Usage: It can take up to an hour to work and is usually taken in doses of one or two 500mg tablets at a time, up to 4 times in 24 hours, with a maximum of 8 tablets in 24 hours².
• Safety: Paracetamol is generally safe to take during pregnancy and while breastfeeding, at recommended doses. However, it may not be safe to consume alcohol with paracetamol if you have certain health conditions, such as liver problems².
• Combinations: Paracetamol is often combined with other painkillers and anti-sickness medicines and is included in many cold and flu remedies¹.
• Cautions: It's safe to take paracetamol with most prescription medicines, but combining it with certain medications such as warfarin, epilepsy meds, or TB treatments may require consultation with a healthcare professional³.

Guidelines and Efficacy

Paracetamol is recommended as a first or second-line drug for treating acute and chronic pain, especially in elderly patients or those with limited therapeutic options⁴. Despite its efficacy, there are concerns about hepatic toxicity and reduced therapeutic value in some cases⁴.

Forms and Dosage

• Tablets/Capsules: Typically 500mg or 1g
• Syrup: Available in strengths like 120mg, 250mg, or 500mg per 5ml
• Suppositories: Range from 60mg to 1g²

Always follow the instructions provided by healthcare providers or packaging guidelines.

Footnotes

1. NHS - About paracetamol ↩ ↩²

2. NHS - How and when to take paracetamol for adults ↩ ↩² ↩³ ↩⁴

3. NHS - Taking paracetamol for adults with other medicines and herbal supplements ↩

4. NCBI - Paracetamol: A Review of Guideline Recommendations ↩ ↩²