Paracetamol

Paracetamol has been in use as an analgesic for home medication for over 30 years and is accepted as a very effective treatment for the relief of pain and fever in adults and children. Paracetamol is a pain reliever and a fever reducer. The exact mechanism of action of is not known.

Paracetamol is used to treat many conditions such as headache, muscle aches, arthritis, backache, toothaches, colds, and fevers. It relieves pain in mild arthritis but has no effect on the underlying inflammation and swelling of the joint.

Do not use more of this medication than is recommended. An overdose of paracetamol can cause serious harm. The maximum amount of paracetamol for adults is 1 gram (1000 mg) per dose and 4 grams (4000 mg) per day. Taking more paracetamol could cause damage to your liver.

Dosage
The maximum amount for adults is 1 gram (1000 mg) per dose and 4 grams (4000 mg) per day. Using more Paracetamol could cause damage to your liver. If you drink more than three alcoholic beverages per day, talk to your doctor before taking Paracetamol and never use more than 2 grams (2000 mg) per day. If you are treating a child, use a pediatric form of paracetamol. Carefully, follow the dosing directions on the medicine label. Do not give the medication to a child younger than 2 years old without the advice of a doctor.

Side effects:
•  low fever with nausea, stomach pain, and loss of appetite;
•  dark urine, clay-colored stools; or
•  jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).