Paracetamol Fuzix Fhc – Farmacêutica (Paracetamol)

Paracetamol is used to manage pain and fever through central cyclo‑oxygenase inhibition.

• Headache: provides relief of mild to moderate tension‑type headache.
• Fever: lowers elevated body temperature associated with viral or bacterial infections.
• Musculoskeletal pain: eases aches in muscles, joints and back.
• Dental pain: reduces discomfort following dental procedures.
• Osteoarthritis: helps control chronic joint pain in mild cases.
• Menstrual cramps: lessens cramp‑related discomfort during menstruation.

• Paracetamol exerts its effect primarily by inhibiting the cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes in the central nervous system, particularly COX‑2, which reduces the synthesis of prostaglandins involved in pain signaling and thermoregulation. It also modulates serotonergic pathways that contribute to its antipyretic and analgesic actions, without significant peripheral anti‑inflammatory activity.

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

Common Side Effects

• Nausea: mild stomach upset may be experienced.
• Rash: occasional skin redness or mild itching.
• Elevated liver enzymes: transient increase detected in blood tests.
• Headache: paradoxical headache in a small number of users.
• Dizziness: brief sensation of light‑headedness.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Hepatotoxicity: severe liver injury, especially with overdose or chronic high‑dose use.
• Stevens‑Johnson syndrome: rare severe skin reaction.
• Anaphylaxis: immediate hypersensitivity requiring emergency care.
• Blood disorders: aplastic anemia or thrombocytopenia in very rare cases.
• Renal impairment: acute kidney injury in susceptible individuals.
• Hypotension: sudden drop in blood pressure after high‑dose administration.

Paracetamol should be used with awareness of its safety profile and potential interactions.

• Dose limitation: do not exceed the maximum daily amount recommended by a healthcare professional.
• Liver disease: avoid or use only under strict medical supervision if hepatic impairment exists.
• Alcohol consumption: limit intake as concurrent use increases liver toxicity risk.
• Pregnancy: consult a healthcare provider before use during any trimester.
• Children: ensure age‑appropriate formulation and dosing under professional guidance.
• Store below 25°C: keep in the original packaging, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Paracetamol may interact with several medicines, affecting its efficacy or safety.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Warfarin: increased anticoagulant effect may raise bleeding risk.
• Isoniazid: combined use can enhance hepatotoxic potential.
• Rifampicin: may reduce paracetamol plasma concentrations.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Antiepileptics (e.g., carbamazepine, phenytoin): may alter drug metabolism.
• HIV protease inhibitors: potential for altered paracetamol clearance.
• Oral contraceptives: may slightly increase hepatic enzyme activity.