Paracetamol Codramol Nutra Essential (Paracetamol)

Paracetamol is an analgesic that reduces pain and fever by acting on the prostaglandin pathway.

• Pain: provides relief of mild to moderate pain such as headache, muscular or dental discomfort.
• Fever: lowers elevated body temperature associated with infection or inflammation.
• Headache: alleviates tension‑type and mild migraine headaches.
• Muscular pain: eases aches and strains in the musculoskeletal system.
• Dental pain: helps manage discomfort after dental procedures.

• Paracetamol inhibits the synthesis of prostaglandins in the central nervous system by blocking the cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, primarily COX‑2, which reduces the perception of pain and lowers the hypothalamic set‑point for temperature regulation, thereby providing analgesic and antipyretic effects.

Paracetamol may cause a range of adverse reactions, from mild to serious.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea: occasional feeling of stomach upset.
• Rash: mild skin irritation or redness.
• Dizziness: transient light‑headedness.
• Stomach upset: mild abdominal discomfort.
• Headache: occasional mild headache.
• Fatigue: feeling of tiredness.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Anaphylaxis: severe allergic reaction with breathing difficulty.
• Liver toxicity: potential hepatic injury with high doses.
• Blood disorders: rare cases of thrombocytopenia or leukopenia.
• Stevens‑Johnson syndrome: severe skin and mucous membrane reaction.
• Hepatocellular necrosis: rare but life‑threatening liver damage.
• Hypersensitivity reactions: including angioedema.

Paracetamol should be used with attention to patient‑specific factors and safety guidelines.

• Assess liver function: avoid use in patients with severe hepatic impairment.
• Avoid alcohol: concurrent alcohol consumption may increase hepatotoxic risk.
• Check total daily dose: do not exceed the recommended maximum daily amount.
• Use with caution in the elderly: monitor for adverse effects and dosing errors.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: consult a healthcare professional before use.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep in the original pack, protect from moisture.

Paracetamol can interact with several medicines, requiring careful management.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Warfarin: may increase bleeding risk.
• Alcohol: enhances hepatotoxic potential.
• Other paracetamol‑containing products: risk of accidental overdose.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Carbamazepine: may reduce analgesic efficacy.
• Rifampicin: may increase metabolic clearance.
• Certain anticonvulsants (e.g., phenytoin): may alter plasma levels.