Paracetamol, also known as acetaminophen, is a widely used medication for its analgesic (pain-relieving) and antipyretic (fever-reducing) properties¹². It is frequently used to treat various conditions such as headaches, muscle aches, arthritis, backache, toothaches, colds, and fevers².

The medication works by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins in the brain, which act as chemical messengers indicating pain and contribute to the regulation of body temperature³. Paracetamol begins to take effect typically within an hour of ingestion and can provide relief for about 5 hours³.

Paracetamol is available in multiple forms, including tablets, capsules, syrups, powders, and suppositories, making it accessible for various patient needs¹⁴. It is also commonly included in many over-the-counter cold and flu remedies, often in combination with other medications¹.

Though generally safe and well-tolerated when used as directed, excessive use of paracetamol can lead to serious health issues, the most notable being hepatotoxicity, which can lead to liver damage²⁵. Caution is necessary to avoid taking multiple medications that contain paracetamol, particularly in children⁴.

While paracetamol is often compared with other painkillers such as ibuprofen and aspirin, it is generally preferred for people who cannot tolerate these drugs due to their side effects, such as gastrointestinal issues or bleeding disorders².

In summary, paracetamol is a versatile and commonly used medication that is generally safe when used appropriately to manage pain and reduce fever¹³.

Footnotes

1. NHS - About paracetamol for adults ↩ ↩² ↩³ ↩⁴

2. NCBI Bookshelf - Paracetamol (Acetaminophen) ↩ ↩² ↩³ ↩⁴

3. NHS - Common questions about paracetamol for adults ↩ ↩² ↩³

4. NHS - About paracetamol for children ↩ ↩²

5. PubMed - Paracetamol: A Review of Guideline Recommendations ↩