insta_paracetamol
Generic Name
Paracetamol
Manufacturer
Beximco Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Description
Overview of the medicine
Paracetamol is a widely used over-the-counter pain reliever and fever reducer. It is effective for mild to moderate pain and fever. It is also known as acetaminophen.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
500 mg to 1000 mg every 4-6 hours as needed. Maximum 4000 mg in 24 hours.
Elderly
Similar to adult dosage, but caution with hepatic/renal impairment.
Renal_impairment
Dosage interval may need to be extended. Consult a doctor. Generally, avoid if GFR < 10 mL/min.
How to Take
Orally with or without food. Can be taken with water.
Mechanism of Action
Its exact mechanism is not fully understood, but it is believed to act primarily in the central nervous system by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis, leading to analgesic and antipyretic effects. It has weak anti-inflammatory properties.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Pain relief: 30-60 minutes; Fever reduction: 30 minutes.
Excretion
Excreted mainly in the urine as glucuronide and sulfate conjugates. Less than 5% is excreted unchanged.
Half life
1-4 hours (typically 2-3 hours) in adults.
Absorption
Rapidly and almost completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Peak plasma concentrations reached within 30-60 minutes.
Metabolism
Primarily metabolized in the liver (90-95%) by conjugation with glucuronic acid and sulfate. A small amount is metabolized by cytochrome P450 into a toxic intermediate (NAPQI), which is detoxified by glutathione.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to paracetamol
- Severe hepatic impairment or active liver disease
Drug Interactions
Alcohol
Increased risk of hepatotoxicity with chronic heavy alcohol use.
Warfarin
May increase anticoagulant effect, requiring closer INR monitoring.
Phenytoin, Carbamazepine, Rifampicin
May increase the risk of hepatotoxicity by inducing paracetamol metabolism.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, sweating. Severe overdose can lead to hepatotoxicity (liver damage), renal failure, coma, and death. Antidote is N-acetylcysteine (NAC). Seek immediate medical attention.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Generally considered safe for use during pregnancy and lactation at recommended doses, but always consult a doctor before use.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to paracetamol
- Severe hepatic impairment or active liver disease
Drug Interactions
Alcohol
Increased risk of hepatotoxicity with chronic heavy alcohol use.
Warfarin
May increase anticoagulant effect, requiring closer INR monitoring.
Phenytoin, Carbamazepine, Rifampicin
May increase the risk of hepatotoxicity by inducing paracetamol metabolism.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, sweating. Severe overdose can lead to hepatotoxicity (liver damage), renal failure, coma, and death. Antidote is N-acetylcysteine (NAC). Seek immediate medical attention.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Generally considered safe for use during pregnancy and lactation at recommended doses, but always consult a doctor before use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
36 months from manufacturing date.
Availability
Available in all pharmacies and supermarkets
Approval Status
Approved by DGDA (Bangladesh)
Patent Status
Patent expired, generic available
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensively studied and widely used for decades. New formulations or combination therapies undergo clinical trials.
Lab Monitoring
- Liver function tests (LFTs) in chronic users or suspected overdose.
- Renal function tests if long-term high dose use.
Doctor Notes
- Advise patients not to exceed 4g/day total paracetamol from all sources.
- Counsel patients on potential for hepatotoxicity with overdose, especially with concomitant alcohol use.
Patient Guidelines
- Do not exceed the recommended dose.
- Do not take with other paracetamol-containing products.
- 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, unless it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take a double dose.
Driving Precautions
Paracetamol usually does not affect the ability to drive or operate machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Avoid excessive alcohol consumption while taking paracetamol, especially with chronic use.
- Maintain adequate hydration.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.