Napa Extra
Generic Name
Paracetamol (Acetaminophen) 500 mg
Manufacturer
Beximco Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| napa extra 500 mg tablet | ৳ 2.50 | ৳ 30.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Napa Extra 500 mg Tablet is a medication containing Paracetamol, used for relieving mild to moderate pain and reducing fever. It works by blocking the production of certain chemical messengers that cause pain and fever.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
500 mg to 1000 mg every 4-6 hours as needed. Maximum 4000 mg in 24 hours.
Elderly
Usually no special dosage adjustment needed, but caution with liver/kidney impairment.
Renal_impairment
Dosage interval may need to be extended (e.g., every 6-8 hours) in severe renal impairment.
How to Take
Oral administration. Can be taken with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole with water.
Mechanism of Action
Paracetamol is thought to act primarily in the central nervous system, inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis through a mechanism that is not fully understood, but potentially involving selective cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibition (e.g., COX-3). It also has a weak peripheral effect on prostaglandin synthesis.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Typically 30-60 minutes for analgesia/antipyresis.
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 30-60 minutes after oral administration.
Metabolism
Primarily metabolized in the liver via conjugation with glucuronic acid and sulfate. A small amount is metabolized by cytochrome P450 enzymes to N-acetyl-p-benzoquinone imine (NAPQI), a toxic metabolite, which is rapidly detoxified by conjugation with glutathione.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to paracetamol or any component of the formulation
- Severe hepatic impairment (active liver disease)
Drug Interactions
Alcohol
Increased risk of liver toxicity, especially with chronic heavy alcohol consumption.
Warfarin
May enhance the anticoagulant effect, increasing risk of bleeding, especially with prolonged use and high doses.
Isoniazid, Rifampicin, Carbamazepine
May increase the risk of paracetamol hepatotoxicity due to enzyme induction.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, sweating, and confusion. Severe overdose can lead to hepatic necrosis, liver failure, coma, and death. Treatment involves gastric lavage, activated charcoal, and administration of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) as an antidote.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Considered safe for use during pregnancy and lactation at recommended doses, but always consult a doctor.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to paracetamol or any component of the formulation
- Severe hepatic impairment (active liver disease)
Drug Interactions
Alcohol
Increased risk of liver toxicity, especially with chronic heavy alcohol consumption.
Warfarin
May enhance the anticoagulant effect, increasing risk of bleeding, especially with prolonged use and high doses.
Isoniazid, Rifampicin, Carbamazepine
May increase the risk of paracetamol hepatotoxicity due to enzyme induction.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, sweating, and confusion. Severe overdose can lead to hepatic necrosis, liver failure, coma, and death. Treatment involves gastric lavage, activated charcoal, and administration of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) as an antidote.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Considered safe for use during pregnancy and lactation at recommended doses, but always consult a doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 3 years from manufacturing date.
Availability
Pharmacies, drugstores, supermarkets
Approval Status
Approved by local regulatory authorities (e.g., DGDA in Bangladesh)
Patent Status
Generic (Paracetamol is off-patent)
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have established the efficacy and safety of Paracetamol over decades for pain and fever management.
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 to check other medications for paracetamol content to avoid overdose.
- Emphasize the importance of not exceeding the maximum daily dose.
- Be cautious in patients with pre-existing liver or kidney conditions.
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. 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
Napa Extra is generally not expected to affect the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities.
Lifestyle Advice
- Stay hydrated.
- Get adequate rest.
- Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine.
Alternative Medicines in Bangladesh
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.