Centamol
Generic Name
Paracetamol (Acetaminophen) 500 mg Tablet
Manufacturer
Local Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| centamol 500 mg tablet | ৳ 1.90 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Centamol 500 mg Tablet is a medication containing Paracetamol (Acetaminophen), primarily used to relieve mild to moderate pain and reduce fever. It is one of the most commonly used over-the-counter analgesics and antipyretics.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
500 mg to 1000 mg every 4-6 hours as needed, not exceeding 4000 mg (4 grams) in 24 hours.
Elderly
Similar to adult dosage, but caution with hepatic or renal impairment.
Renal_impairment
Dosage interval may need to be extended (e.g., 6-8 hours for CrCl < 50 mL/min).
How to Take
Take orally with or without food. Do not exceed the recommended dose.
Mechanism of Action
Paracetamol is thought to act primarily in the central nervous system, inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, particularly COX-2 and possibly COX-3. This leads to reduced prostaglandin synthesis, which in turn reduces pain and fever. Unlike NSAIDs, it has weak peripheral anti-inflammatory effects.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Pain relief usually within 30 minutes, fever reduction within 30-60 minutes.
Excretion
Mainly excreted in the urine as glucuronide and sulfate conjugates. Less than 5% is excreted unchanged.
Half life
Approximately 1.5 to 3 hours in adults.
Absorption
Rapidly and almost completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, with peak plasma concentrations occurring within 30 to 60 minutes after oral administration.
Metabolism
Primarily metabolized in the liver via glucuronidation and sulfation. A small amount is metabolized by cytochrome P450 to a toxic intermediate (NAPQI), which is normally detoxified by conjugation with glutathione.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to paracetamol or any component of the formulation
- Severe hepatic impairment
Drug Interactions
Alcohol
Increased risk of liver damage when consumed with alcohol, especially chronic heavy drinking.
Warfarin
May enhance the anticoagulant effect of warfarin with prolonged use of high doses, increasing the risk of bleeding.
Other paracetamol-containing products
Increased risk of overdose if taken simultaneously.
Phenobarbital, Carbamazepine, Phenytoin
May increase paracetamol metabolism, leading to reduced efficacy and increased risk of hepatotoxicity.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, sweating, and malaise, potentially progressing to severe liver damage, liver failure, and death. Treatment involves gastric lavage, activated charcoal, and intravenous N-acetylcysteine (NAC).
Pregnancy & Lactation
Generally considered safe for use during pregnancy and lactation at recommended doses, but consult a doctor.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to paracetamol or any component of the formulation
- Severe hepatic impairment
Drug Interactions
Alcohol
Increased risk of liver damage when consumed with alcohol, especially chronic heavy drinking.
Warfarin
May enhance the anticoagulant effect of warfarin with prolonged use of high doses, increasing the risk of bleeding.
Other paracetamol-containing products
Increased risk of overdose if taken simultaneously.
Phenobarbital, Carbamazepine, Phenytoin
May increase paracetamol metabolism, leading to reduced efficacy and increased risk of hepatotoxicity.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, sweating, and malaise, potentially progressing to severe liver damage, liver failure, and death. Treatment involves gastric lavage, activated charcoal, and intravenous N-acetylcysteine (NAC).
Pregnancy & Lactation
Generally considered safe for use during pregnancy and lactation at recommended doses, but consult a doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from the date of manufacture.
Availability
Pharmacies, drugstores, supermarkets
Approval Status
Generally approved by major health authorities (e.g., FDA, DGDA)
Patent Status
Generic (Patent expired)
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensively studied since its introduction; numerous clinical trials have established its efficacy and safety for pain and fever.
Lab Monitoring
- Liver function tests (in cases of overdose or prolonged high-dose therapy)
- Renal function tests (in patients with pre-existing renal impairment)
Doctor Notes
- Advise patients not to exceed 4g/day for adults.
- Be cautious in patients with severe hepatic or renal impairment.
- Counsel on the risk of hepatotoxicity with overdose or co-ingestion of alcohol.
Patient Guidelines
- Do not exceed the recommended dose.
- Avoid taking other paracetamol-containing products simultaneously.
- Consult a doctor if pain or fever persists for more than a few days.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
No known effects on driving ability at recommended doses.
Lifestyle Advice
- Stay hydrated, especially when treating fever.
- Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.
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