Paracetamol Zentiva (Paracetamol)

Paracetamol Zentiva is an analgesic and antipyretic that acts on common pain‑related pathways and fever mechanisms.

• Headache: provides relief from tension‑type and mild migraine headaches.
• Fever: reduces elevated body temperature associated with infections.
• Musculoskeletal pain: eases discomfort from muscle aches, back pain and minor joint strain.
• Dental pain: alleviates pain following dental procedures or toothache.
• Cold‑related discomfort: helps manage sore throat and sinus pressure during colds.

• Paracetamol exerts its effect primarily by inhibiting the cyclo‑cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes in the central nervous system, especially COX‑2, which reduces prostaglandin synthesis. This action lowers the hypothalamic set‑point for temperature regulation and diminishes pain signal transmission in the brain and spinal cord, providing analgesic and antipyretic effects without significant peripheral 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 redness or mild itching.
• Elevated liver enzymes: transient increase detected in blood tests.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Hepatotoxicity: risk of liver injury, especially with overdose or chronic high‑dose use.
• Stevens‑Johnson syndrome: rare severe skin reaction.
• Anaphylaxis: very 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.

• Liver disease: avoid or limit use in patients with existing hepatic impairment.
• Alcohol use: limit intake as concurrent alcohol can increase liver toxicity risk.
• Pregnancy: use only under medical advice, especially in the third trimester.
• Pediatric dosing: ensure appropriate formulation and dose for children.
• Drug interactions: review concomitant medications for potential additive hepatotoxicity.
• Store at below 25°C: keep in the original packaging, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Paracetamol may interact with several medicines, requiring monitoring or avoidance.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

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

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Antiepileptic drugs (e.g., carbamazepine, phenytoin): may increase metabolism of paracetamol, reducing efficacy.
• Rifampicin: may lower plasma levels of paracetamol.
• Alcohol: concurrent use heightens hepatotoxic potential.
• HIV‑CART regimens: some