What Is Paracetamol?
Paracetamol (also known as acetaminophen) is an analgesic (painkiller) and antipyretic (fever reducer) that has been in use for over 70 years. It is one of the few medicines recommended as safe during pregnancy and for children of all ages when dosed correctly.
Unlike ibuprofen or aspirin, paracetamol does not reduce inflammation, which makes it gentler on the stomach but less effective for inflammatory pain like arthritis.
What Does Paracetamol Treat?
- Fever — works by resetting the brain's temperature regulator
- Headache and migraine — mild to moderate relief
- Toothache — temporary pain relief before dental treatment
- Body aches — muscle soreness, back pain, period pain
- Post-vaccination discomfort — fever and soreness at the injection site
Correct Dosage for Adults
| Form | Dose | Frequency | Maximum per day |
| 500 mg tablet | 1–2 tablets | Every 4–6 hours | 8 tablets (4 g) |
| 665 mg extended release | 2 tablets | Every 6–8 hours | 6 tablets (4 g) |
| Syrup 120 mg/5 ml | 20–30 ml | Every 4–6 hours | Follow label |
Always leave at least 4 hours between doses.
Dosage for Children
Paracetamol for children is weight-based:
- 10–15 mg per kg of body weight per dose
- For a 10 kg child: 100–150 mg per dose
- Paediatric syrups are the safest form for children under 6
Never give adult paracetamol tablets to children without medical advice.
When Paracetamol Becomes Dangerous
Paracetamol overdose is the leading cause of acute liver failure in many countries. This can happen accidentally when people:
- Take more than the recommended dose thinking "more is better"
- Take multiple products that all contain paracetamol (e.g., cold medicines + pain tablets)
- Take paracetamol with alcohol regularly
Signs of overdose: nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, yellowing of skin or eyes. If you suspect an overdose, seek emergency medical help immediately.
Who Should Avoid Paracetamol?
- People with liver disease or cirrhosis
- People who drink more than 3 alcoholic drinks per day
- People taking warfarin (blood thinner) — paracetamol increases its effect
Paracetamol vs Ibuprofen: Which Should You Take?
| Condition | Better Choice |
| Fever | Either, but paracetamol first |
| Muscle pain | Ibuprofen (anti-inflammatory) |
| Toothache | Ibuprofen (stronger for dental pain) |
| Stomach problems | Paracetamol (gentler on stomach) |
| Pregnant | Paracetamol only |
| Child under 12 | Paracetamol preferred |
Summary
Paracetamol is safe and effective when taken correctly. Always read the label, stay within the daily limit, and never combine it with other paracetamol-containing products. If your pain or fever does not improve after 48 hours, consult a doctor.