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Pain Management - Antipyretics

Acetaminophen 500mg 20 tab

اسيتامينوفين 500مجم 20 اقراص

Paracetamol(acetaminophen)

15.00 EGP

Unit price: 7.50 EGP

Specifications

Manufacturer
Sedico
Units / Box
2
Price Updated
Jan 28, 2023

Uses & Indications

Paracetamol (acetaminophen) is primarily used for the relief of mild to moderate pain and to reduce fever. It is effective for various conditions including headache, muscle aches, arthritis, backache, toothaches, colds, and menstrual cramps.

How It Works

Paracetamol is believed to exert its analgesic (pain-relieving) and antipyretic (fever-reducing) effects primarily through inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis within the central nervous system. Unlike NSAIDs, it has minimal anti-inflammatory activity and does not significantly inhibit prostaglandin synthesis in peripheral tissues.

Dosage & Administration

drops

Adults: Not typically used for adults. Consult a physician or pharmacist for appropriate dosing if drops are the only available form.

Children: 10-15 mg/kg per dose every 4-6 hours as needed, not exceeding 60-75 mg/kg/day or 5 doses in 24 hours. Use an oral syringe or dropper for accurate measurement.

syrup

Adults: Not typically used for adults. Consult a physician or pharmacist for appropriate dosing if syrup is the only available form.

Children: 10-15 mg/kg per dose every 4-6 hours as needed, not exceeding 60-75 mg/kg/day or 5 doses in 24 hours. Use an oral syringe or measuring spoon for accurate measurement.

sachet

Adults: 500 mg to 1000 mg every 4-6 hours as needed, not exceeding 4000 mg in 24 hours. Dissolve the contents of the sachet in water before taking.

Children: For older children/adolescents, consult a physician or pharmacist for appropriate dosing based on weight. Not typically recommended for young children.

tablet

Adults: 500 mg to 1000 mg every 4-6 hours as needed, not exceeding 4000 mg in 24 hours.

Children: For children over 6 years, 250-500 mg every 4-6 hours as needed, not exceeding 4 doses in 24 hours. For younger children, dosing should be strictly based on weight; consult a physician or pharmacist.

injectable

Adults: 1000 mg every 6 hours or 650 mg every 4 hours, not exceeding 4000 mg in 24 hours. Administer as a 15-minute intravenous infusion. Dosage should be adjusted for patients with renal impairment.

Children: 15 mg/kg every 6 hours or 12.5 mg/kg every 4 hours, not exceeding 60 mg/kg/day or 4000 mg/day, whichever is less. Administer as a 15-minute intravenous infusion. Dosage should be adjusted for patients with renal impairment.

suppository

Adults: 500 mg to 1000 mg every 4-6 hours as needed, not exceeding 4000 mg in 24 hours. Insert rectally.

Children: 10-15 mg/kg per dose every 4-6 hours as needed, not exceeding 60-75 mg/kg/day or 5 doses in 24 hours. Insert rectally.

effervescent

Adults: 500 mg to 1000 mg every 4-6 hours as needed, not exceeding 4000 mg (4 grams) in 24 hours. Dissolve the tablet completely in a glass of water before drinking.

Children: Not typically recommended for young children. For older children/adolescents, consult a physician or pharmacist for appropriate dosing based on weight.

Side Effects

  • Nausea (less than 1%)
  • Mild gastrointestinal upset (less than 1%)
  • Skin rash (rare, less than 0.1%)

Serious Side Effects

  • Liver damage (hepatotoxicity) with overdose or chronic high doses
  • Severe skin reactions (e.g., Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis) (very rare)
  • Allergic reactions (angioedema, anaphylaxis) (rare)
  • Blood dyscrasias (e.g., thrombocytopenia, agranulocytosis) (very rare)

Contraindications

Paracetamol is contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity to paracetamol or any component of the formulation. It should also be avoided in patients with severe hepatic impairment or active liver disease.

Drug Interactions

Chronic use of paracetamol, especially at higher doses, may enhance the anticoagulant effect of warfarin, increasing the risk of bleeding. Concomitant use with chronic alcohol consumption significantly increases the risk of hepatotoxicity. Drugs that induce hepatic enzymes (e.g., phenytoin, carbamazepine, rifampicin, isoniazid) may increase the risk of paracetamol-induced liver damage. Cholestyramine may reduce paracetamol absorption if administered within 1 hour. Metoclopramide and domperidone may increase the rate of paracetamol absorption.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Category: B

Paracetamol is generally considered safe for use during all trimesters of pregnancy when used at the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible duration. However, prolonged or high-dose use should be avoided, and use should always be under medical supervision. Consult your doctor or pharmacist before use during pregnancy.

Storage

Store paracetamol products at room temperature, typically between 15-30°C (59-86°F), away from moisture and direct light. Keep out of reach of children. Do not freeze injectable forms. Always check the specific storage instructions on the product packaging.

Clinical Tips

Always verify the dose and frequency before administration. Do not exceed the maximum recommended daily dose (4000 mg for adults) to prevent severe liver damage. Be vigilant for other medications, including over-the-counter products, that may contain paracetamol to avoid accidental overdose. If fever persists for more than 3 days or pain for more than 5-7 days, consult a healthcare professional.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take paracetamol with other pain relievers?

It is generally not recommended to take paracetamol with other medications that also contain paracetamol, as this can lead to an overdose. Consult your doctor or pharmacist before combining paracetamol with other pain relievers, especially NSAIDs, to ensure safety and avoid potential interactions.

How long does paracetamol take to work?

Paracetamol typically starts to relieve pain or reduce fever within 30 to 60 minutes after oral administration. The peak effect is usually observed within 1 to 2 hours.

Is paracetamol safe for long-term use?

For most individuals, paracetamol is safe for short-term use at recommended doses. Prolonged daily use, especially at higher doses, can increase the risk of liver damage. If you require long-term pain relief, consult your doctor to discuss appropriate treatment options.

What should I do if I miss a dose of paracetamol?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Can paracetamol cause stomach upset like ibuprofen?

Paracetamol is generally less irritating to the stomach than NSAIDs like ibuprofen. While mild gastrointestinal upset can occur, it is much less common and severe compared to the stomach issues sometimes associated with NSAIDs.

Similar — Paracetamol(acetaminophen)

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Medical Disclaimer

The information provided is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting or changing any medication.