Paracetamol 500mg: Uses, Dosage and Side Effects

Paracetamol (acetaminophen) (Tablet, Analgesic and antipyretic) - Common pain and fever reliever. Safe at the right dose, but overdose seriously damages the liver.

Overview

Paracetamol, called acetaminophen in the USA, is one of the most widely used medicines for mild to moderate pain and fever. It is gentle on the stomach and suitable for most people, including in pregnancy when needed. The main danger is taking too much, because overdose can cause severe liver damage that may not show symptoms for a day or more.

How It Works

Paracetamol is thought to work mainly in the brain and spinal cord, reducing the production of prostaglandins involved in pain signalling and acting on the temperature control centre to lower fever. It has little anti-inflammatory effect.

Uses (Indications)

• Headache and migraine
• Toothache and period pain
• Muscle and joint aches
• Fever with colds, flu, COVID-19 or dengue

Dosage: General Label Information

Contraindications: Who Should Not Take It

• Known allergy to paracetamol
• Severe liver disease (unless advised by a doctor)

Side Effects

• Side effects are uncommon at normal doses
• Rarely: skin rash or allergic reaction
• Overdose: liver damage, sometimes delayed

Interactions

• Many cold and flu products already contain paracetamol - check labels to avoid double dosing
• Warfarin effect may increase with regular use
• Alcohol raises liver risk

Storage

Store below 25°C in a dry place, out of sight and reach of children.

Patient Counselling Tips

• Count total daily paracetamol from all products
• Use the lowest dose that works
• Do not use for more than 3 days for fever without advice

When to See a Doctor

• You took more than the maximum dose - seek urgent help even if you feel well
• Pain lasts more than 3 days or fever persists
• Yellow skin or eyes, or dark urine

Before You Take Paracetamol 500mg

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have kidney, liver or heart problems, have had an allergic reaction to any medicine, or take other prescription medicines, herbal remedies or supplements. Bring a list of everything you take to every appointment.

Using It Safely

Paracetamol 500mg is usually taken only when needed. Keep to the label limits, note the time of each dose, and do not combine it with other products containing the same active ingredient. If you need it regularly for more than a few days, speak to a doctor so the cause can be checked.

Frequently Asked Questions

This Paracetamol 500mg guide is educational, based on official labelling and public guidance, and reviewed by the ghkh.site editorial team. Always read the leaflet in your pack and ask your pharmacist.