Paracetamol




It is a pain killer which is use to treat pain and fever. It is also known as acetaminophen. It's chemical name is N-(4 - hydroxyphenyl) acetamide.
                  

Formula = C8H9NO2




Types of paracetamol

  1. Tablets and capsules.
  2. Syrups.

Why should we take paracetamol ?

  1. To reduce body pain and headache.
  2. To reduce pain of menstrual periods.
  3. To reduce toothaches.
  4. To reduce fever and flue aches and pains.


How should take this medication ?

It should be taken only after the consult of your doctors and pharmacists. It should according to right dose. Before taking it make sure about the brand and date of packaging of this medicine.


Important points to be care 

For adult

  1. This medication takes one hour to work properly and provide relief.
  2. Usual dose for adult is one or two 500mg tablets at a time.
  3. The gap between two doses should be of four hours.
  4. Eight 500mg tablets in 24 hours is the usual dose for adult.

For children

  1. It takes one hour to work properly but provide relief in 30 minutes after taking it.
  2. The gap between two doses should be of four to six hours.
  3. Don't give more than four doses in 24 hours.

Precaution

  1. Before taking it tell your doctors or pharmacists about your allergic reactions.
  2. Tell your doctors or pharmacists about your medical history like liver diseases, alcoholism etc.
  3. If you are pregnant, tell your doctor before taking this medication.

Overdose

If you have taken overdoses of paracetamol, then go to your nearest A&E(Accident and Emergency) department as soon as possible.

Symptoms of overdoses

  1. Vomiting 
  2. Nausea
  3. Loss of appetite
  4. Stomach pain 
  5. Sweating
  6. Dark urination
  7. Abdominal pain


Side effects of Paracetamol


  1. Allergic reaction
  2. Low blood pressure
  3. Blood related diseases, Leukopenia(low no. of WBCs), Therombocytopenia(low no. of platelets cells).
  4. It's overdose can damages liver and kidney.