Paracetamol is a popular and common
analgesic and
antipyretic drug used for relieving fever, headaches, and other minor aches
and pains.
What is Paracetamol?
Paracetamol is a valuable central analgesic
but weak peripheral anti-inflammatory agent & exhibits good & prompt
antipyretic action. It does not stimulate respiration, or alter acid base
balance & causes less gastric irritation & has no effect on cellular
metabolism or clotting factors. It is not uricosuric.
Brand Names of Paracetamol
Crocin, Panadol, Tylenol
Alternate Name: acetaminophen
Iupac Name of Paracetamol:
N-(4-hydroxyphenyl)acetamide
Drug form and composition
Paracetamol is available in the form of
tablets and syrups. One tablet contains 500 mg Paracetamol while 5
milliliters syrup contains 120 mg Paracetamol.
Use of Paracetamol
Paracetamol drugs are used in the treatment of
a number of health consitions such as follows:
- Headache
- Fever
- Muscle aches
- Arthritis
- Backache
- Toothaches
- Colds
How Paracetamol Drugs Work
The drug acts by blocking the production
of chemicals, known as prostaglandins, which are responsible for pain
transmission. Unlike aspirin and other
non
steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen,
paracetamol acts in the brain, blocking an enzyme involved in the
transmission of pain.
Dosage of Paracetamol Medicines
The maximum amount of paracetamol
tablets for adults is 1 gram (1000 mg) per dose and 4 grams (4000 mg) per
day. Talk to your doctor before taking paracetamol if you drink more than
three alcoholic beverages per day, and never use more than 2 grams (2000 mg)
per day. Duration of the treatment in children should not exceed 5 days,
whereas in adults it may be continued up to 10 days. The details are given
below:
- 500 mg (1 tablet) for adults 3-4 times daily.
- 60-120 mg (2.5-5 ml syrup) for children aged from 3 months to 1 year
, 3-4 times daily
- 120-240 mg (5-10 ml syrup) for children of age 1-6 years, 3-4 times
daily
- 250-500 mg for children older than 6 years, 3-4 times daily
It is always better to take the advice of your medical practitioner
before taking paracetamol even though it is one of the most commonly used
non
prescription pharmaceutical (OTC) drugs.
Side Effects of Paracetamol
The drug has certain side effects, that
can affect individuals in different ways. The following are some of the side
effects, that are often associated with the drug:
For details check out
What are Side Effects of Paracetamol Tablets?
Disclaimer: The above information is for general understanding
of the visitor. Please consult a registered medical practitioner before
taking the aforesaid medicine.