Some information on using paracetamol

Paracetamol (acetaminophen) is an over-the-counter (OTC) drug that reduces pain such as headache, muscle aches, arthritis, backache, toothaches, colds, and fevers. But overdose of paracetamol can cause serious harm on vital organs.

An overdose (maximum amount of paracetamol for adults is 1000 mg per dose and 4000 mg per day) of paracetamol could cause liver damage. So some general information is crucial to know for the patients during uses of paracetamol.

• Patients should tell the doctor if they have liver disease or a history of alcoholism. Because alcohol is a risk factor for damaging liver while taking paracetamol.
• Patients should not use paracetamol if s/he has allergic to it.
• • Do not use paracetamol without telling your doctor if you are pregnant and breast-feeding a baby.
• If you are diabetic and you notice changes in your glucose levels while you are taking paracetamol then talk to your doctor or pharmacist because paracetamol may produce false result in urine glucose tests.
• Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose. In this case you should talk to your doctor.
• There may be other drugs that can interact with paracetamol. Tell your doctor about all your prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor or pharmacist.

Signs of a paracetamol overdose:

Loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, sweating, and confusion or weakness are the first signs of a paracetamol overdose. Pain in upper stomach, dark urine, and yellowing of skin or the whites of eyes are the next symptoms.

Stop using paracetamol and take advice if:

• Fever is not reduced after 3 days of using paracetamol
• Pain is not relieved after 7 days of using paracetamol
• You have any inflammatory signs such as skin rash, redness or swelling after using paracetamol

The write-up is compiled by Amit Sarker, Department of Pharmacy, Primeasia University, Banani, Dhaka.