Indications
Fever, common cold, and influenza, headache, toothache, earache, bodyache, myalgia, neuralgia, dysmenorrhoea, sprains, colic pain, back pain, post-operative pain, postpartum discomfort, inflammatory pain, and post-vaccination pain in children are among the conditions for which paracetamol is prescribed. It's also used to treat rheumatic and osteoarthritic pain, as well as joint stiffness.
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Pharmacology
Paracetamol is analgesic and antipyretic with just a little anti-inflammatory effect. Paracetamol (Acetaminophen) is considered to work largely in the central nervous system (CNS), raising pain threshold by blocking both isoforms of the cyclooxygenase enzymes COX-1, COX-2, and COX3, which are involved in prostaglandin (PG) production. Paracetamol is a para aminophenol derivative that possesses analgesic, antipyretic, and anti-inflammatory effects. Â One of the most commonly used, safest, and fastest-acting analgesics is paracetamol. Â It is well tolerated and devoid of aspirin's numerous adverse effects.
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Dosage
Adult
1-2 tablets 3-4 times daily
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InteractionÂ
Patients taking barbiturates, tricyclic antidepressants, and alcohol may have a reduced ability to metabolize large doses of paracetamol. Alcohol can increase liver toxicity from acetaminophen overdose. Long-term use of oral contraceptives or steroidal contraceptives can induce liver enzymes and may prevent therapeutic levels of paracetamol from being achieved by increasing metabolism or first-pass clearance.
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Contraindications
In individuals with significant renal function impairment and hepatic disorders, paracetamol is contraindicated (Viral Hepatitis).
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Side EffectsÂ
Side effects of paracetamol are usually mild, though hematological reactions including thrombocytopenia, leucopenia, pancytopenia, neutropenia, and agranulocytosis have been reported. Pancreatitis, skin rashes, and other allergic reactions occur occasionally
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Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy category B according to USFDA. This drug should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed
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Precautions & Warnings
Paracetamol should be given with caution to patients with impaired kidney or liver function. Paracetamol should be given with care to patients taking other drugs that affect the liver.Â
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Storage Conditions
Store in a dry place away from light and heat. Keep out of reach of children. Opioid analgesics
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