Paracetamol Sandoz (Paracetamol)

• Paracetamol acts systemically to lower temperature and alleviate pain across several common conditions.
• Fever: reduces elevated body temperature caused by infection or inflammation.
• Headache: provides relief from tension‑type and mild migraine headaches.
• Musculoskeletal pain: eases aches associated with back strain, sprains or arthritis.
• Dental pain: helps control discomfort after dental procedures.
• Post‑operative pain: mitigates mild pain following minor surgery.

• Paracetamol exerts its effect primarily by inhibiting cyclooxygenase enzymes in the central nervous system, which decreases the synthesis of prostaglandins involved in pain signalling and thermoregulation. The exact peripheral mechanism remains less defined, but central inhibition leads to antipyretic and analgesic outcomes without significant anti‑inflammatory activity.

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

Common Side Effects

• Nausea or upset stomach.
• Mild skin rash or itching.
• Transient elevation of liver enzymes.
• Headache.
• Dizziness.
• Sweating.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Acute liver failure, especially with overdose.
• Stevens‑Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis.
• Blood disorders such as thrombocytopenia.
• Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis).
• Hepatic necrosis.
• Hypersensitivity reactions with facial swelling.

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

• Assess liver function: avoid in severe hepatic impairment.
• Limit alcohol intake: concurrent use increases hepatotoxic risk.
• Observe maximum daily dose: do not exceed recommended total amount.
• Use with caution in renal impairment: monitor kidney function.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: consult a healthcare professional before use.
• Store at room temperature: keep in the original pack, protect from moisture.

Paracetamol can interact with several medicines, requiring vigilance.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Alcohol: synergistic hepatotoxicity.
• Warfarin: may enhance anticoagulant effect, increasing bleeding risk.
• Carbamazepine: enzyme induction can reduce paracetamol efficacy.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Isoniazid: combined use may raise liver enzyme levels.
• Oral contraceptives: may modestly increase hepatic enzyme activity.
• Antiepileptic drugs (e.g., phenytoin): may alter metabolism, requiring dose review.