Paracetamol Pxgpharma (Paracetamol)

Paracetamol acts on the central nervous system to relieve pain and lower fever. It is commonly employed for the following conditions:

• Headache: provides relief of mild to moderate headache pain.
• Fever: reduces elevated body temperature associated with infection or inflammation.
• Musculoskeletal pain: alleviates aches and discomfort from sprains, strains or minor injuries.

• Paracetamol inhibits prostaglandin synthesis primarily in the central nervous system by blocking the cyclooxygenase (COX) pathway, especially COX‑2. This reduction in prostaglandin levels diminishes the perception of pain and lowers the hypothalamic set‑point for body temperature, resulting in analgesic and antipyretic effects.

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

Common Side Effects

• Nausea: mild stomach upset.
• Rash: skin irritation or mild erythema.
• Elevated liver enzymes: transient laboratory changes.
• Headache: paradoxical headache in some users.
• Dizziness: occasional light‑headed sensation.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Hepatotoxicity: severe liver injury with overdose or chronic high dosing.
• Stevens‑Johnson syndrome: rare severe skin reaction.
• Anaphylaxis: rare allergic response with breathing difficulty.
• Blood disorders: rare cases of thrombocytopenia or neutropenia.
• Renal impairment: uncommon kidney function changes.

Paracetamol should be used with awareness of the following precautions:

• Liver function: avoid use in patients with severe hepatic impairment or chronic alcohol abuse.
• Alcohol consumption: limit intake as it may increase hepatotoxic risk.
• Concomitant medications: review other products containing paracetamol to prevent accidental overdose.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: use only if clearly indicated by a healthcare professional.
• Age considerations: dose adjustments may be required for pediatric or geriatric patients.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep in the original packaging, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Paracetamol can interact with several medicines, requiring monitoring.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Warfarin: may increase anticoagulant effect and bleeding risk.
• Isoniazid: combined use can raise risk of liver toxicity.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Alcohol: concurrent use can potentiate hepatotoxicity.
• Carbamazepine: may reduce paracetamol plasma levels.
• Rifampicin: may increase metabolism leading to reduced efficacy.
• Phenobarbital: may enhance hepatic clearance of paracetamol.
• Certain antiretrovirals: may alter liver enzyme activity affecting safety.