Paracetamol: Uses, Side Effects, Advantages and Disadvantages
Paracetamol—also known as Acetaminophen (mainly in the United States and Canada)—is one of the most widely used medications worldwide for relieving pain and fever. It is considered a safe and effective over-the-counter drug when taken correctly, but misuse or overdose can cause serious health complications, including liver damage.
This comprehensive article explains everything about paracetamol—how it works, recommended dosage, uses, benefits, risks, safety in children and pregnancy, drug interactions, and commonly asked questions.
What is Paracetamol?
Paracetamol is an analgesic (pain reliever) and antipyretic (fever reducer) medicine.
It is available in different forms:
• Tablets and capsules
• Syrups and suspensions (for children)
• Suppositories
• Intravenous (IV) injection (hospital use)
• Combination medicines with caffeine, ibuprofen, tramadol, etc.
It is commonly sold under brand names such as:
• Crocin
• Calpol
• Tylenol (USA)
• Panadol
• Dolo-650
• Metacin
• Pacimol
How Does Paracetamol Work? (Mechanism of Action)
Paracetamol works mainly by:
Blocking prostaglandin production in the brain — reduces fever and pain
Acting on the hypothalamus — regulates body temperature
Minimal anti-inflammatory effect — unlike NSAIDs like ibuprofen or aspirin
This is why it is useful for headache, fever, and mild pain but not as effective for swelling or inflammation-related pain.
Common Uses of Paracetamol
Paracetamol is widely prescribed for:
1. Fever (Pyrexia)
• Viral infections: common cold, flu, COVID-19
• Bacterial infections (with antibiotics)
2. Mild to Moderate Pain Relief
• Headache and migraine
• Toothache and dental pain
• Muscle pain (myalgia)
• Back pain
• Menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhea)
• Joint pain and arthritis (less effective for inflammation)
3.Post-operative Pain
• After minor surgeries
• After dental procedures
4. Pain During Vaccination
Fever and discomfort in children
5.Pediatric and Pregnancy Use
• Safest pain reliever recommended for infants and pregnant women (when prescribed by a doctor)
Situations Where Paracetamol is Preferred
• In patients who cannot take NSAIDs due to ulcers, kidney disease, or asthma
• When anti-inflammatory action is not required
Dosage Guidelines of Paracetamol
Age Group Recommended Dose Maximum Dose per Day
Adults 500–1000 mg every 6 hours 4000 mg (4 g)
Children 10–15 mg/kg every 6–8 hours Do not exceed 60 mg/kg/day
Infants Dose based on weight Consult pediatrician
Avoid taking multiple combination medicines containing paracetamol at the same time.
Advantages of Paracetamol
Advantage Explanation
Safe for most people When taken in correct doses
Available without prescription Easily accessible
Few gastric side effects Unlike NSAIDs, doesn’t damage stomach lining
Safe for children and pregnant women When medically approved
Inexpensive Affordable worldwide
No risk of dependency Non-addictive painkiller
Multiple formulations Tablets, syrups, IV form
These features make paracetamol the first-line drug for pain and fever.
Disadvantages of Paracetamol
Disadvantage Explanation
Limited anti-inflammatory effect Not helpful for swelling-related pain
Liver toxicity in overdose Can cause acute liver failure
Not suitable for chronic alcohol users Higher risk of liver damage
Drug interactions With warfarin, antiepileptics, etc.
Symptoms of overdose appear late Damage may be irreversible if treatment delayed
Side Effects of Paracetamol
Common Side Effects (Rare but Possible)
• Nausea/vomiting
• Stomach discomfort
• Skin rashes or mild allergic reactions
• Dizziness or weakness
Serious Side Effects (Seek immediate medical care)
• Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis)
• Yellowing of skin/eyes (jaundice)
• Dark urine / upper abdominal pain
• Bruising/bleeding (with chronic use)
Paracetamol Overdose
Exceeding the recommended dose can cause Acute Liver Failure.
Symptoms of Overdose
• Nausea and vomiting (first 24 hours)
• Abdominal pain (liver area)
• Confusion, fatigue
• Liver failure after 48–72 hours
Dangerous Dose Levels
• Adults: >4 g/day
• Children: >75 mg/kg/day
Treatment includes N-acetylcysteine (NAC) if administered early.
Who Should Avoid Paracetamol?
• People with severe liver disease
• Chronic alcohol consumers
• Patients allergic to paracetamol components
• Those taking multiple drugs containing paracetamol
Paracetamol During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Stage Safety
• Pregnancy Generally safe under medical advice
• Breastfeeding Safe; only small amount passes into milk
Still, self-medication must be avoided. Use only when necessary.
Drug Interactions
Paracetamol interacts with:
Drug Type Concern
Alcohol Increases liver damage risk
Warfarin Risk of bleeding increases
Antiepileptic drugs Reduce paracetamol effect; liver toxicity risk
Rifampicin & Isoniazid Increased liver toxicity
Always check combination medicines like cold/flu syrups to avoid double dosing.
How Long Can You Take Paracetamol?
• Short-term use: Safe
• Long-term use: Requires medical supervision
Do not use for more than 3 days for fever or 5 days for pain without a doctor’s evaluation.
Paracetamol vs Aspirin vs Ibuprofen
Feature Paracetamol Aspirin Ibuprofen
Pain relief
Fever control
Anti-inflammatory
Stomach irritation Minimal High Moderate
Safety for children Safe Avoid in viral infection (Reye’s syndrome) Safe (use with caution)
Paracetamol is safest for fever, especially in children.
Safety Tips for Using Paracetamol
• Check dosage carefully
• Do not mix multiple paracetamol-containing medicines
• Avoid alcohol consumption
• Take after food if stomach upset occurs
• Consult doctor if fever persists beyond 3 days
• Keep medication away from children
Storage Guidelines
• Store in cool and dry place
• Keep away from heat and moisture
• Do not use expired medicines
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is paracetamol mainly used for?
It is used for fever and mild to moderate pain like headache, toothache, body ache, and menstrual cramps.
2. Can paracetamol be taken on an empty stomach?
Yes, it is generally safe, but taking with food can reduce stomach discomfort.
3. How long does paracetamol take to work?
Usually 30 minutes to show effect and lasts 4–6 hours.
4. Can paracetamol cause liver damage?
Yes, high doses or frequent use can lead to acute liver failure.
5. Is paracetamol addictive?
No, it is a non-addictive medicine.
6. Which is stronger: ibuprofen or paracetamol?
Ibuprofen is stronger for inflammatory pain.
Paracetamol is best for fever and general pain.
7. Can pregnant women take paracetamol?
Yes, but only under medical supervision.
8. Can paracetamol be taken with antibiotics?
Yes, generally safe together, but dosage should not exceed limits.
9. What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the next dose only after 6 hours. Do not double the dose.
10. Is paracetamol safe for COVID-19?
Yes, it is recommended for COVID-19 related fever and pain.
Conclusion
Paracetamol is one of the safest and most effective medicines for treating fever and mild to moderate pain, making it a household essential worldwide. When taken correctly, it causes minimal side effects. However, overdose or prolonged use can lead to severe liver damage and dangerous complications.
Always follow the recommended dosage and consult a healthcare provider if pain or fever persists. Responsible use ensures maximum benefit with minimum risk.
I hope that you liked this article.
Thanks!! 🙏 😊
Writer: Vandita Singh, Lucknow (GS India Nursing Group)