Paracetamol Abz (Paracetamol)

Paracetamol is an analgesic and antipyretic that acts on the body's pain‑and‑fever pathways.

• Headache: provides relief of mild to moderate tension‑type headache.
• Fever: lowers elevated body temperature in febrile conditions.
• Musculoskeletal pain: eases discomfort from muscle aches, back pain or minor joint pain.
• Dental pain: reduces pain associated with toothache or dental procedures.
• Cold symptoms: helps alleviate pain and fever that accompany common colds.

• Paracetamol reduces pain and fever by inhibiting cyclooxygenase enzymes in the central nervous system, which decreases the synthesis of prostaglandins that sensitize pain receptors and regulate body temperature. Its exact peripheral mechanism remains less defined, contributing to its favorable safety profile compared with non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drugs.

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 in laboratory values.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

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

Paracetamol should be used with awareness of potential risks and specific patient factors.

• Dose adjustment: reduce dose in patients with hepatic impairment.
• Alcohol use: avoid excessive alcohol as it may increase liver toxicity.
• Pregnancy: limit use to the lowest effective dose and short duration; consult a healthcare professional.
• Children: ensure appropriate pediatric formulation and dosing.
• Concomitant medications: review other products containing paracetamol to prevent accidental overdose.
• Store below 25°C: keep in the original packaging, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Paracetamol may interact with several medicines, requiring attention to dosage and monitoring.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

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

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Antiepileptic drugs (e.g., carbamazepine, phenytoin): may increase hepatic metabolism of paracetamol.
• Certain HIV protease inhibitors: may alter paracetamol clearance.
• Oral contraceptives: may slightly increase paracetamol plasma levels.
• High‑dose vitamin C: may affect renal excretion of paracetamol metabolites.