What it is used for
- Mild to moderate pain such as headache, muscle ache, backache, toothache and period pain
- Fever
- Discomfort from colds and flu
- Often combined with other medicines for stronger pain relief under medical advice
How it works
Paracetamol is thought to act mainly in the brain, where it reduces the production of chemicals (prostaglandins) involved in signalling pain and raising body temperature. Unlike anti-inflammatory painkillers, it has little effect on inflammation in the rest of the body.
How it is taken
Comes as tablets, capsules, caplets, soluble/effervescent tablets, oral liquid or syrup (often for children), suppositories and, in hospital, an injection. Take it exactly as directed by your doctor, pharmacist or the product label. Because paracetamol is in many combination cold, flu and pain products, check labels to avoid taking more than one paracetamol-containing medicine at the same time.
No doses here on purpose. The right strength and schedule depend on you — only a doctor or pharmacist should set them. Always follow your prescription and the label.
Common side effects
- At usual doses paracetamol causes very few side effects
- Occasional nausea
- Rarely, skin rash or itching
Serious effects — get help
- Signs of a serious allergic reaction (swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing, widespread rash)
- Severe blistering or peeling skin reactions
- Symptoms of liver damage from overdose, which may be delayed (nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, yellowing of the skin or eyes) — overdose is a medical emergency even if you feel well
If a reaction is severe — for example trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or collapse — go to the nearest emergency room now or call your local emergency number. Do not wait for an online consultation.
Interactions to watch
- Other medicines that also contain paracetamol (high overdose risk)
- Warfarin and similar blood thinners (regular use may affect bleeding risk)
- Regular heavy alcohol use (raises the risk of liver harm)
- Some medicines for epilepsy or tuberculosis
- Always tell your pharmacist what else you take before combining products
Who should take care
- Generally considered the preferred painkiller in pregnancy and breastfeeding at the lowest effective dose for the shortest time, but confirm with your clinician
- Tell your doctor if you have liver or kidney disease, drink alcohol regularly, are underweight or malnourished
- Never exceed the maximum amount on the label — overdose can cause serious, potentially fatal liver injury
- Seek urgent care for any suspected overdose, even without symptoms