Medicine Information

Epicet

Name: Epicet
Brand: Epicet
Rating: 4.5 (117 reviews)

Tablet250 mgAntipyretic, AnalgesicATC: N02BE01

Generic Name

Paracetamol

Manufacturer

Eskayef Pharmaceuticals Ltd.

Country

Bangladesh

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Price Details

Current market pricing information

Variant	Unit Price	Strip Price
epicet 250 mg tablet	৳ 16.00	৳ 160.00

Description

Overview of the medicine

Epicet 250 mg tablet contains Paracetamol, which is used for the relief of mild to moderate pain and to reduce fever. It is a widely used over-the-counter medication.

Uses & Indications

Relief of mild to moderate pain (e.g., headache, muscle aches, toothache, menstrual pain)

Reduction of fever (e.g., associated with colds, flu, vaccinations)

Dosage

Adults

1-2 tablets (250-500 mg) every 4-6 hours as needed. Do not exceed 4000 mg (8 tablets) in 24 hours.

Elderly

No specific dose adjustment generally required, but caution in frail elderly or those with hepatic/renal impairment. Refer to adult dose.

Renal_impairment

In severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance < 10 mL/min), the dosing interval should be extended to 8 hours.

How to Take

Take orally with water, with or without food. Do not crush or chew the tablet.

Mechanism of Action

Paracetamol is thought to act primarily in the central nervous system by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis, which reduces pain and fever. Its peripheral anti-inflammatory effects are minimal.

Pharmacokinetics

Onset

Onset of analgesic action within 30-60 minutes; antipyretic action within 30 minutes.

Excretion

Excreted in the urine mainly as glucuronide and sulfate conjugates. Less than 5% is excreted unchanged.

Half life

Plasma elimination half-life is typically 1 to 3 hours in adults.

Absorption

Rapidly and almost completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Peak plasma concentrations occur within 30-60 minutes after oral administration.

Metabolism

Primarily metabolized in the liver via conjugation with glucuronide and sulfate. A small amount is metabolized by cytochrome P450 to a potentially toxic intermediate metabolite (NAPQI) which is rapidly detoxified by conjugation with glutathione.

Side Effects

Contraindications

Known hypersensitivity to Paracetamol or any component of the formulation.
Severe hepatic impairment or active liver disease.

Drug Interactions

Alcohol

Increased risk of hepatotoxicity with chronic alcohol intake.

Warfarin and other coumarin anticoagulants

Increased anticoagulant effect, increased risk of bleeding, especially with prolonged regular use of Paracetamol.

Phenobarbital, Phenytoin, Carbamazepine, Rifampicin

May increase the risk of hepatotoxicity due to induction of hepatic enzymes.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place, below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Overdose

Overdose of Paracetamol can cause severe, potentially fatal liver damage (hepatic necrosis). Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite. N-acetylcysteine is the antidote and should be administered as soon as possible.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Paracetamol is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy and lactation at recommended doses. However, always consult a doctor before taking any medication during these periods.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this medicine

Pack Sizes

Blister pack of 10 tabletsBox of 100 tablets (10x10 blister packs)

Shelf Life

Typically 3 years from the date of manufacture when stored properly.

Availability

Pharmacies, supermarkets

Approval Status

Approved (available over-the-counter)

Patent Status

Off-patent

WHO Essential Medicine

Yes

Clinical Trials

Paracetamol has undergone extensive clinical trials and studies over decades, establishing its efficacy and safety profile for pain and fever management. Ongoing research often focuses on comparative effectiveness and safety in specific patient populations.

Lab Monitoring

Liver function tests (ALT, AST) if long-term use or suspected overdose.
Renal function tests if used in patients with pre-existing renal impairment.

Doctor Notes

Emphasize strict adherence to dosing guidelines to prevent accidental overdose and subsequent hepatotoxicity.
Advise caution in patients with hepatic impairment, renal impairment, or chronic alcohol use.
For persistent pain or fever, investigate underlying causes rather than relying solely on symptomatic relief.

Patient Guidelines

Do not exceed the recommended dose of Paracetamol.
Check labels of other medications to avoid taking too much Paracetamol.
If symptoms persist for more than 3 days (for fever) or 5 days (for pain), consult a doctor.

Missed Dose Advice

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Driving Precautions

Paracetamol is not known to impair the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you experience any side effects that affect your concentration, avoid these activities.

Lifestyle Advice

Ensure adequate hydration, especially when experiencing fever.
Avoid or limit alcohol consumption while taking Paracetamol, especially if chronic alcohol user.