Paracetamol Basi (Paracetamol)

• Paracetamol is an analgesic that reduces pain and fever by acting on the central nervous system.
• Mild to moderate pain: provides relief from headaches, musculoskeletal discomfort, dental pain, and menstrual cramps.
• Fever: helps lower elevated body temperature in both adults and children.
• Cold and flu symptoms: alleviates associated aches, fever, and discomfort.

• Paracetamol works primarily by inhibiting the cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes in the central nervous system, which reduces the synthesis of prostaglandins responsible for pain and fever. Its action is more pronounced in the brain than in peripheral tissues, leading to effective antipyretic and analgesic effects without significant 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 irritation or mild allergic reaction.
• Headache: paradoxical headache in rare cases.
• Elevated liver enzymes: mild, transient changes in liver function tests.
• Dizziness: occasional light‑headedness.
• Abdominal discomfort: mild stomach pain.

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: life‑threatening allergic response.
• Blood disorders: rare cases of thrombocytopenia or neutropenia.
• Renal impairment: possible kidney function decline with prolonged high doses.
• Hypersensitivity reactions: including angioedema.

• Paracetamol should be used with caution in certain situations.
• Pregnancy: consult a healthcare professional before use, especially in the third trimester.
• Liver disease: avoid or limit use; monitor liver function regularly.
• Alcohol consumption: increase risk of liver toxicity; limit intake while using.
• Overdose risk: seek immediate medical attention if accidental excess is taken.
• Drug interactions: review all concomitant medications with a pharmacist.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep in the original container, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

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

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Warfarin: may increase bleeding risk.
• Isoniazid: heightened hepatotoxic potential.
• Alcohol: synergistic liver toxicity.
• Other hepatotoxic drugs (e.g., methotrexate): risk of liver injury.
• Multiple acetaminophen‑containing products: risk of overdose.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Carbamazepine: may reduce paracetamol effectiveness.
• Phenobarbital: may lower plasma concentrations.
• Rifampin: may increase metabolism, reducing efficacy.
• Oral contraceptives: may slightly reduce hormonal effectiveness.
• Lithium: potential increase in lithium levels.