Paracetamol: Dosage, Side Effects, Brands & Clinical Use | MedexInfo
Labels:
Analgesic & antipyretic
Paracetamol
OTC / Rx (IV)
Generic NameParacetamol (Acetaminophen)
Therapeutic ClassAnalgesic, Antipyretic
Common Dose500–1000 mg every 4–6 hours
Max / 24h4000 mg (Adults)
PregnancyCategory B
Indications ▼
Mild to moderate pain (headache, toothache, musculoskeletal pain)
Fever (antipyretic)
Postoperative pain
Cold and flu symptoms
Mechanism & Pharmacokinetics ▼
Mechanism: Inhibits central prostaglandin synthesis (COX pathway) leading to analgesic and antipyretic effects. Minimal peripheral anti-inflammatory activity.
Pharmacokinetics: Rapid oral absorption; peak levels within 30–60 minutes. Metabolized in liver via glucuronidation and sulfation. Small fraction forms toxic metabolite (NAPQI) detoxified by glutathione. Half-life 2–3 hours.
Dosage & Administration ▼
| Patient Category | Recommended Dose | Max / 24h |
|---|---|---|
| Adults | 500–1000 mg every 4–6 hours | 4000 mg |
| Elderly | Same as adults; avoid high doses in liver impairment | 3000–4000 mg |
| Children | 10–15 mg/kg per dose every 4–6 hours | 60–75 mg/kg/day |
| IV (Adults) | 1 g every 6 hours or 650 mg every 4 hours | 4000 mg |
Note: Avoid exceeding maximum daily dose to prevent hepatotoxicity. Dose adjustment required in hepatic impairment.
Side Effects ▼
Common: Nausea, mild rash
Occasional: Elevated liver enzymes
Serious: Hepatotoxicity in overdose, rare severe skin reactions (SJS/TEN)
Contraindications ▼
Severe hepatic impairment
Hypersensitivity to paracetamol
Chronic alcoholism (use cautiously)
Drug Interaction ▼
Alcohol: increases risk of liver toxicity
Warfarin: prolonged use may increase INR
Enzyme inducers (rifampicin, carbamazepine): increase hepatotoxic risk
Pregnancy & Lactation ▼
Category B; considered safe when used at recommended doses
Compatible with breastfeeding in standard doses
Clinical / Research Summary ▼
Widely used first-line analgesic and antipyretic worldwide.
Safer GI profile compared to NSAIDs.
Overdose is leading cause of acute liver failure globally.
N-acetylcysteine is effective antidote in toxicity.
Patient Counseling Points ▼
Do not exceed recommended daily dose.
Check other medicines for hidden paracetamol content.
Seek medical help immediately in case of overdose.
Avoid alcohol during treatment.
Storage & Handling ▼
Store below 30°C
Protect from moisture and light
Keep out of reach of children
Brand Names (Bangladesh & Global) ▼
Ace
A-One
Acep
Aceta
Napa
Panadol
Paracip
Dolo
Calpol
Crocin
Febrex
Dolo 650
Tylenol
Medical Disclaimer: This clinical summary is for informational purposes only. Always follow guidance from a qualified healthcare professional for dosage, interactions, and use.
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