Paracetamol (also known as acetaminophen in the US and Canada) is one of the most commonly used medications worldwide for pain and fever. Here’s a detailed overview of its benefits, risks, uses, and other important information:

Introduction

🔷 Paracetamol: Overview

Generic name: Paracetamol / Acetaminophen

Brand names: Tylenol, Panadol, Crocin, Calpol (for children), etc.

Category: Analgesic (pain reliever) and Antipyretic (fever reducer)

✅ Benefits of Paracetamol Tablets

  1. Pain Relief

Effective for mild to moderate pain like:

Headache

Toothache

Muscle aches

Menstrual cramps

Back pain

Arthritis (especially osteoarthritis)

  1. Fever Reduction

Helps lower body temperature during fevers caused by infections (like cold, flu, COVID-19).

  1. Well Tolerated

Fewer gastrointestinal side effects compared to NSAIDs like ibuprofen or aspirin.

Safe for most people, including those with:

Stomach ulcers

Bleeding disorders

Aspirin allergy

  1. Safe in Pregnancy

Considered one of the safest painkillers during pregnancy and breastfeeding when used at the recommended dose.

Risks & Side Effects

Paracetamol is generally safe when used as directed, but overuse or misuse can cause serious harm.

  1. Liver Damage (Hepatotoxicity)

The most serious risk.

Toxic dose: typically >4,000 mg (4g) per day for adults.

Risk increases with:

Alcohol use

Liver disease

Overdosing (even accidentally)

  1. Allergic Reactions

Rare, but possible:

Skin rash

Swelling

Difficulty breathing (anaphylaxis – very rare)

  1. Kidney Issues

High or chronic doses may affect kidney function, especially in people with existing kidney disease.

📋 Dosage Guidelines (for Adults)

Typical adult dose: 500–1000 mg every 4–6 hours as needed

Maximum daily dose: 4,000 mg (4g)

Always read the label – some combination cold/flu meds already contain paracetamol.

🚫 When to Avoid Paracetamol

Known allergy or hypersensitivity

Severe liver disease

Chronic alcohol abuse

Taking other medications containing paracetamol (risk of overdose)

💡 Important Tips

Always check labels of over-the-counter medications for hidden paracetamol.

Avoid alcohol while taking paracetamol.

Do not combine with NSAIDs long-term unless advised by a doctor.

Keep out of reach of children – even a small overdose can be dangerous to them.

👩‍⚕️ When to Seek Medical Help

Persistent pain or fever >3 days

Suspected overdose (symptoms: nausea, vomiting, confusion, abdominal pain)

Yellowing of skin/eyes (sign of liver damage)

📚 Related Reading