How to Safely Take Paracetamol – Aunty Jane

Paracetamol is a widely used medication for pain relief and fever reduction. It is available over the counter and in prescription formulations. When taken correctly, it is an effective and generally safe medication. Following the correct dosing guidelines helps ensure both safety and effectiveness while minimising the risk of overdose.

Recommended Dosage and Administration

Paracetamol comes in different forms, including tablets, capsules, liquid suspensions, and suppositories. Always follow the instructions on the medication label or those given by your doctor or pharmacist.

For adults and children over 12 years: Take 500 mg to 1000 mg every 4-6 hours, as needed.
Do not exceed 4000 mg in 24 hours (equivalent to 8 tablets of 500 mg each).

How to Take Paracetamol

Swallow tablets or capsules whole with water.
Liquid suspensions should be measured using a dosing syringe or cup to ensure accurate dosing.
Paracetamol can be taken with or without food.

Safety Considerations

When Not to Take Paracetamol

Do not take paracetamol if:

You are allergic to paracetamol or any of its ingredients.
You have been advised by a healthcare provider to avoid it, such as in cases of severe liver disease.
You are already taking another medication containing paracetamol (e.g., some cold and flu medications), as this may lead to accidental overdose.

Possible Side Effects

Paracetamol is generally well tolerated, but side effects can include:

Nausea or stomach upset
Rash or allergic reactions (rare)
Liver damage in cases of overdose or long-term misuse

Paracetamol Overdose Warning

Taking more than the recommended dose of paracetamol can cause serious liver damage. Seek immediate medical attention if you:

Have taken more than the maximum daily dose.

Drug Interactions

Avoid alcohol while taking paracetamol, as it increases the risk of liver damage.
Consult a healthcare provider if taking blood thinners like warfarin, as paracetamol may enhance their effects.

Conclusion

Paracetamol is a safe and effective medication for pain and fever relief when taken correctly. Always follow the recommended dose and seek medical advice if unsure about its use.

The information provided on this website by Aunty Jane in any format or medium, are for general information purposes only and are not intended as medical advice or as a substitute for consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. The information made available by Aunty Jane do not provide personalised medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. To the extent permitted by law, Aunty Jane disclaims all liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information provided. For specific medical concerns, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Australian Government Department of Health. (2023). Paracetamol safety and dosing guidelines. Retrieved from https://www.tga.gov.au
NPS MedicineWise. (2023). Paracetamol: Understanding its use and risks. Retrieved from https://www.nps.org.au
Drugs.com. (2023). Paracetamol (Acetaminophen) dosage guide and safety information. Retrieved from https://www.drugs.com
Mayo Clinic. (2023). Paracetamol - Description and proper use. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org