Panadol (Paracetamol)

Panadol (paracetamol) is used across several common pain‑related pathways and fever mechanisms.

• Headache: provides relief from mild to moderate tension‑type headaches.
• Fever: lowers elevated body temperature associated with viral or bacterial infections.
• Musculoskeletal pain: eases aches from muscle strains, back pain, or minor joint discomfort.
• Dental pain: reduces discomfort following dental procedures or toothache.
• Menstrual discomfort: helps alleviate mild menstrual cramps.

• Paracetamol exerts its analgesic and antipyretic actions primarily by inhibiting cyclooxygenase enzymes in the central nervous system, which reduces prostaglandin synthesis. This central inhibition lowers the pain‑signal transmission threshold and resets the hypothalamic set‑point for temperature regulation, providing fever reduction without significant peripheral anti‑inflammatory effects.

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

Common Side Effects

• Nausea: mild stomach upset may be reported.
• Rash: occasional skin redness or mild itching.
• Elevated liver enzymes: transient increase detected in blood tests.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Stevens‑Johnson syndrome: severe skin reaction requiring immediate medical attention.
• Hepatotoxicity: risk of liver injury, especially with overdose or chronic high‑dose use.
• Anaphylaxis: rare allergic reaction with breathing difficulty or swelling.
• Blood disorders: uncommon cases of thrombocytopenia or neutropenia.

When using Panadol, consider the following safety measures:

• Dose limitation: adhere to maximum daily amount to avoid liver toxicity.
• Alcohol use: limit intake as concurrent consumption increases hepatic risk.
• Pre‑existing liver disease: use only under medical supervision.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: consult healthcare professional before use.
• Children: ensure age‑appropriate formulation and dosing.
• Store below 25°C: keep in the original packaging, protect from moisture.

Paracetamol may interact with several medicines, requiring attention to avoid reduced efficacy or increased toxicity.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Warfarin: may enhance anticoagulant effect, increasing bleeding risk.
• Isoniazid: combined use can raise risk of liver injury.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Antiepileptic drugs (e.g., carbamazepine, phenytoin): may increase metabolism of paracetamol, lowering its effectiveness.
• Rifampicin: accelerates paracetamol clearance, potentially reducing analgesic benefit.
• Oral contraceptives: may slightly increase hepatotoxic potential.
• High‑dose vitamin C: can affect paracetamol metabolism pathways.