Taking over-the-counter medicine (OTC) can be tricky for most people since purchasing these medications do not require a doctor’s prescription. Paracetamol is one of the most common OTC medications which can be found in every household, but not everyone is aware on its proper dosage.
What is Paracetamol?
Paracetamol or also known as acetaminophen is found in some over-the-counter medicines like Biogesic which is used to relieve pain and reduce fever.
Who can take Paracetamol?
Paracetamol in general is safe for most people to take, including breastfeeding and pregnant women. However, other individuals with special medical conditions should be cautious in taking medications with paracetamol including:
- Those with liver/kidney diseases
- Those who drink more than 14 units of alcoholic beverages a week
- Those who are allergic to paracetamol
What is the recommended dosage?
The normal dose of paracetamol is one or two 500mg tablets at a time, up to four times in 24 hours. A healthy adult may take a maximum dose of eight 500mg tablets of paracetamol in a day with at least 4 hours in between each dosage. The maximum dose per day is at 4,000mg for paracetamol.
Is it possible to overdose on Paracetamol?
There is a low incidence of undesirable effects when taking paracetamol when taken as recommended. In some instances, consumers are unaware that paracetamol is often found in many combination medicines. It is important that you follow your doctor’s advice on the proper usage of any kind of medicine. Paracetamol, when taken in excessive doses, could be risky for the liver.
Preventive measures
Always educate yourself on the proper use and recommended dosage by making it a habit to read the product inserts and labels of medicines. Here are other basic tips to follow when taking paracetamol:
- Do not take paracetamol continuously for more than five days, unless prescribed by your doctor
- Avoid drinking alcohol
- For those taking liquid form of paracetamol, always use a dose-measuring device
- Leave at least 4 hours between recommended doses
General disclaimer
Always consult your doctor before taking any medicine. Your doctor will be in the best position to give the appropriate medical advice. For suspected undesirable drug reaction, seek medical attention immediately and report to the FDA at www.fda.gov.ph and UNILAB, Inc. at 8-864522-1 (8-UNILAB-1) or productsafety@unilab.com.ph. Always buy from your trusted drugstores and retailers.
Sources
- Risk of unintentional overdose with non-prescription acetaminophen products. J Gen Intern Med 2012 Dec; 27(12): 1587-1593.
- Shone, L. et al. Misunderstanding and potential unintended misuse of acetaminophen among adolescents and young adults. J Health Commun 2011; 16(Suppl 3): 256-267.
- AHFS Drug Information 2018
