Lemsip Cold & Flu Hot Lemon (Paracetamol)

Paracetamol acts as an analgesic and antipyretic, providing relief in common cold‑and‑flu related symptoms.

• Fever: lowers elevated body temperature.
• Headache: eases pain commonly experienced during viral infections.
• Muscular aches: reduces discomfort associated with flu‑related body aches.

• Paracetamol inhibits cyclooxygenase enzymes, primarily COX‑2, in the central nervous system, leading to decreased synthesis of prostaglandins. This reduction diminishes the hypothalamic set‑point for temperature regulation and attenuates pain signal transmission, producing antipyretic and analgesic effects without significant peripheral anti‑inflammatory activity.

Paracetamol is generally well tolerated, but adverse reactions can occur.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea: mild stomach upset.
• Rash: transient skin irritation.
• Elevated liver enzymes: mild, reversible changes.
• Headache: occasional rebound.
• Dizziness: brief episodes of light‑headedness.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Hepatotoxicity: severe liver injury, especially with overdose.
• Stevens‑Johnson syndrome: rare severe skin reaction.
• Anaphylaxis: rare allergic response.
• Blood disorders: agranulocytosis or thrombocytopenia.
• Severe skin reactions: toxic epidermal necrolysis.

Paracetamol should be used with awareness of its safety profile.

• Dose limits: do not exceed the maximum daily amount recommended by a healthcare professional.
• Liver disease: avoid or use only under medical supervision if hepatic impairment is present.
• Alcohol consumption: limit intake as combined use increases liver risk.
• Pregnancy: consult a healthcare provider before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
• Drug interactions: review concomitant medications for potential interactions.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep below 25 °C, retain in original packaging, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Paracetamol may interact with several medicines, requiring attention to avoid adverse outcomes.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Warfarin: increased anticoagulant effect, monitor INR closely.
• High‑dose ibuprofen or other NSAIDs: heightened risk of liver toxicity.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Antiepileptics (e.g., carbamazepine, phenytoin): may reduce paracetamol plasma levels.
• Rifampicin: may increase metabolism, lowering efficacy.
• Alcohol: synergistic hepatotoxic potential.
• Certain herbal supplements (e.g., St. John’s wort): may alter drug metabolism.