Is an analgesic that reduces pain and fever, but does not relieve inflammation

If you are taking this medication for self-treatment, follow all directions on the product package. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. If your doctor has directed you to take this medication, take it exactly as prescribed.

Take this medication by mouth. Drink a full glass of water (8 ounces/240 milliliters) with it unless your doctor tells you otherwise. Do not lie down for at least 10 minutes after you have taken this drug. If stomach upset occurs while you are taking this medication, you may take it with food or milk.

Swallow enteric-coated tablets whole. Do not crush or chew enteric-coated tablets. Doing so can increase stomach upset.

Do not crush or chew extended-release tablets or capsules. Doing so can release all of the drug at once, increasing the risk of side effects. Also, do not split extended-release tablets unless they have a score line and your doctor or pharmacist tells you to do so. Swallow the whole or split tablet without crushing or chewing.

The dosage and length of treatment are based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Read the product label to find recommendations on how many tablets you can take in a 24-hour period and how long you may self-treat before seeking medical advice. Do not take more medication or take it for longer than recommended unless directed by your doctor. Use the smallest effective dose. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

If you are taking this medication for self-treatment of headache, seek immediate medical attention if you also have trouble speaking, weakness on one side of the body, or sudden vision changes. Before using this drug, consult a doctor or pharmacist if you have headaches caused by head injury, coughing, or bending, or if you have a headache with vomiting that is severe or doesn't stop, fever, and stiff neck.

If you are taking this medication as needed (not on a regular schedule), remember that pain medications work best if they are used as the first signs of pain occur. If you wait until the pain has worsened, the medicine may not work as well. Aspirin with a special coating (enteric coating) or slow release may take longer to stop pain because it is absorbed more slowly. Ask your doctor or pharmacist to help select the best type of aspirin for you.

You should not take this medication for self-treatment of pain for longer than 10 days. You should not use this drug to self-treat a fever that lasts longer than 3 days. In these cases, consult a doctor because you may have a more serious condition. Tell your doctor promptly if you develop ringing in the ears or difficulty hearing.

If your condition lasts or gets worse (such as new or unusual symptoms, redness/swelling of the painful area, pain/fever that does not go away or gets worse) or if you think you may have a serious medical problem, tell your doctor promptly.

Paracetamol products are known by a variety of brand names. Paracetamol is used in many pain-relieving products and in cough/cold formulations designed for adults and children.

How does paracetamol work?

Scientists are still learning exactly how paracetamol works. Paracetamol is thought to reduce the intensity of pain signals to the brain and reduce fever. Unlike non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), paracetamol has minimal effect in relieving inflammation. This is an important consideration as some types of body pain (like osteoarthritis pain) are caused by inflammation.

Paracetamol is generally well tolerated when taken as directed, but like all over-the-counter pain relievers, should not be taken for more than a few days without medical advice.

What is paracetamol used for?

Paracetamol purchased over-the-counter without a prescription is commonly used to provide temporary relief of different types of pain, including:

• Headaches
• Migraines
• Period Pain
• Aches and pains associated with colds & flu

Paracetamol also reduces fever.

History of paracetamol

Paracetamol was invented in 1893 and was first available to the general public in 1950 in the United States and in 1956 in Australia.

Paracetamol vs ibuprofen: what’s the difference?

Pain relievers available in your supermarket or pharmacy can be divided into two groups:

• those that mainly act at the site of the pain and
• those that are thought to mainly act centrally – in the brain

Paracetamol is a different type of pain reliever than nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and aspirin. Paracetamol mainly acts centrally (via the brain), while ibuprofen, aspirin and other NSAIDs mainly act at the site of pain.

 IbuprofenParacetamolType of medicineNon-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)AnalgesicHow it worksBlocks pain signals mainly at the site of painThought to work mainly centrally (via the brain) to reduce intensity of pain signalsCommon brand namesNurofen, Advil, Rafen Panadol, Herron Paracetamol, Panamax, Chemists’ Own, Dymadon

Paracetamol: frequently asked questions

Can you take paracetamol when pregnant?

Paracetamol can be taken for pain relief during pregnancy, however pregnant women should always seek medical advice before taking paracetamol or other medicines.

How long does paracetamol take to work?

Paracetamol is available in many different strengths and formats, so the time it takes to work can vary. It’s best to speak to your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Can you take paracetamol on an empty stomach?

When taking paracetamol, it is important to read the label to ensure you understand how that particular product should be taken.

How much paracetamol can I take in a day?

Read the product label to learn more about the recommended dose of paracetamol, including the maximum you can take in one day. It is very important not to take more than the recommended daily dose. Remember to always read the label first and take the medicine as directed, plus keep track of the timing of doses. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if you are unsure.

Paracetamol dosing can vary according to a range of factors including age, weight, and the strength of the product. It’s important to read the product label for the correct dosing instructions. Be aware that paracetamol should only be taken for a few days at a time, unless advised by your doctor.

Remember that paracetamol can be found in many pain-relieving products, including cough and cold medicines for adults and children. It’s therefore important to check the label or ask your pharmacist to make sure you do not take more than the daily recommended dose of paracetamol. If your pain persists or you are unsure about anything related to your symptoms or medication, always speak to your doctor or pharmacist.

Important information

This medicine may not be right for you. Read the label before purchase. Follow the directions for use. Incorrect use could be harmful. If symptoms persist, talk to your health professional.

This article is for general information only and not intended as a substitute for medical advice. All information presented on these web pages is not meant to diagnose or prescribe. In all health-related matters, always consult your health professional.

What is a medication administered to prevent or reduce fever?

Which of these is a substance that reduces fever in the human body analgesic?

Which term refers to the class of drugs that relieves pain without affecting consciousness?

What means taken into the body or administered in a manner other than through the digestive tract?