Description
Paracetamol is an analgesic (painkiller) and antipyretic (reduces fever). It works mainly in the brain by:
- Blocking the production of prostaglandins, substances that cause pain and fever
- Helping to reduce pain such as headache, toothache, muscular aches and period pain
- Lowering high temperature (fever) caused by infections like colds and flu
It does not reduce inflammation to the same extent as anti-inflammatory painkillers (like ibuprofen), but it is often gentler on the stomach.
Who it may be suitable for
Paracetamol can be used for short-term relief of mild to moderate pain and fever, including:
- Headache and migraine
- Toothache and dental pain
- Muscular aches, joint pains and back pain
- Period pain (dysmenorrhoea)
- Cold and flu symptoms, sore throat, fever
- Pain and temperature after vaccinations or minor procedures
Adults and older children
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Most adults and young people aged 16 years and over can take paracetamol at standard doses.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Paracetamol is generally considered a first-choice painkiller in pregnancy when used at the lowest effective dose for the shortest time.
- It is also a first-choice painkiller while breastfeeding; only very small amounts pass into breast milk and these are not expected to harm the baby at normal doses.
Who may not be able to take paracetamol
Speak to a doctor or pharmacist before taking paracetamol if you:
- Have ever had an allergic reaction to paracetamol or any other medicine
- Have liver problems (including due to alcohol, fatty liver, hepatitis or cirrhosis)
- Have kidney problems
- Regularly drink more than the recommended amount of alcohol (more than 14 units a week)
- Weigh less than 50 kg – you may need a lower dose
- Are taking other medicines that may affect the liver
Children and infants:
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Paracetamol is suitable for babies and children, but dose and strength depend on age and weight. Only use child-specific liquid or sachet formulations and always follow the instructions on the pack or from a healthcare professional.
Side Effects
Paracetamol is generally very well tolerated, and side effects are rare when taken at the correct dose.
Possible side effects include:
Rare:
- Skin reactions such as rash, itching or hives
- Breathing problems (more likely if you have experienced these with other painkillers like aspirin or ibuprofen)
- Changes in blood tests (e.g. affecting some blood cells or liver enzymes)
Very rare but serious (seek medical help urgently):
- Severe skin reactions – skin rash, blistering, peeling, or sores in the mouth
- Signs of serious liver problems:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sudden weight loss or loss of appetite
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
- Dark urine, pale stools
- Signs of changes in blood cells, such as:
- Unusual bruising or bleeding
- Frequent infections (e.g. sore throats)
- Feeling very tired or pale
Allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) – call emergency services immediately if you get:
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat
- Severe rash, wheezing or difficulty breathing
Long-term or high-dose use, particularly above recommended levels, can lead to serious liver and kidney damage.
Patient Information Leaflet
Please see HERE for the Patient Information Leaflet
Additional Info
- Active ingredient: Paracetamol 500 mg per tablet
- Uses: Relief of mild to moderate pain and fever
- Maximum adult dose: 4 g (4000 mg) in 24 hours – no more than 8 x 500 mg tablets, with at least 4 hours between doses
- Paracetamol is generally suitable for most adults, including those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, when used as directed
Overdose warning:
- Taking more than the recommended dose, either at once or over several days, can cause life-threatening liver damage
- Symptoms may be mild or absent initially; do not wait to feel unwell – seek emergency help immediately if too much has been taken
Driving and using machines:
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Paracetamol does not usually affect your ability to drive or use tools or machines. If you feel unwell, dizzy or very tired, avoid such activities until you feel better.
Alcohol:
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Regular heavy alcohol use increases the risk of liver damage with paracetamol. Keep alcohol intake within recommended limits, and speak to a doctor if you have liver problems or drink heavily.
Directions
Always follow the instructions on the pack or as advised by a healthcare professional.
The guidance below is for standard 500 mg tablets in adults and adolescents (or as specified on your product page).
Adults and adolescents (16+ years)
- Usual dose: 1–2 tablets (500–1000 mg) up to 4 times in 24 hours
- Leave at least 4 hours between doses
- Maximum dose in 24 hours: 8 tablets (4000 mg / 4 g)
Do not exceed this maximum daily dose under any circumstances. Taking too much paracetamol can cause serious, potentially fatal liver damage, even if you feel well at first.
How to take
- Swallow tablets whole with water
- You can take paracetamol with or without food
- Do not crush or chew unless advised and the product is suitable for that use
Important: other medicines containing paracetamol
- Many cold & flu remedies and painkillers contain paracetamol as an ingredient
- Always check the labels and do not take more than one paracetamol-containing product at the same time, to avoid accidental overdose
Children:
- Use the appropriate children’s paracetamol liquid or sachets
- Follow the age/weight-based dosing instructions on the pack or as advised by a healthcare professional
If you are unsure which dose is right for you or a child, ask a pharmacist or doctor for guidance.
Missed a dose?
Paracetamol is usually taken as needed for pain or fever, not on a strict schedule.
- If you forget to take a dose when you have pain or fever and still need it, simply take a dose when you remember, as long as it’s been at least 4 hours since your last dose
- Do not take two doses together and do not exceed 4 doses in 24 hours
If you take more paracetamol than recommended, even if you feel well, you must seek medical advice immediately (for example, contact NHS 111 or go straight to A&E), as early treatment is vital to reduce the risk of serious liver damage.
FAQs
What can paracetamol be used for?
Paracetamol is used to relieve mild to moderate pain (such as headache, toothache, period pain, muscle aches, joint pain) and to reduce fever from colds, flu and other infections.
How long does paracetamol take to work and how long does it last?
Paracetamol usually starts to work within about 30–60 minutes of taking a dose. Pain relief can last for around 4–6 hours, which is why doses are spaced at least 4 hours apart.
Can I take paracetamol with ibuprofen or other painkillers?
Paracetamol can usually be taken together with ibuprofen (if ibuprofen is suitable for you) because they work in different ways. Do not take two paracetamol-containing medicines at the same time (for example, paracetamol tablets plus a cold/flu sachet that also contains paracetamol). Always check the labels. If you take regular prescribed painkillers, ask a doctor or pharmacist before combining them.
Is paracetamol safe in pregnancy?
Paracetamol is generally a first-choice option for pain and fever during pregnancy, when used at the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time. If you need frequent or long-term pain relief during pregnancy, you should discuss this with your midwife or doctor.
Is it safe while breastfeeding?
Yes, paracetamol is considered safe while breastfeeding at standard doses. Only very small amounts pass into breast milk and are not expected to harm your baby.
What should I do if I accidentally take more than the recommended dose?
Even if you feel well, taking too much paracetamol can cause serious liver damage. Contact a doctor, NHS 111, or attend A&E immediately. Take the medicine pack with you so the healthcare team can see exactly what you have taken. Do not wait for symptoms to appear.
Can I give paracetamol to children?
Yes, but you must use a child-appropriate formulation (such as liquid, suspension or age-appropriate sachets). The correct dose based on age and/or weight, following the instructions on the box or as advised by a healthcare professional. Never give adult-strength tablets to a young child unless a doctor has specifically advised how to do this.
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