PYRIGESIC TABLET

🌡️🧠💊 Paracetamol 500mg Tablet: Trusted Relief for Pain & Fever

Paracetamol 500mg, also known as acetaminophen, is one of the most widely used analgesic (pain reliever) and antipyretic (fever reducer) medications. It is suitable for people of all ages and considered a first-line treatment for managing mild to moderate pain and fever. Paracetamol is available over-the-counter and in prescription formulations, both as a single agent and in combination with other medications.

Its popularity stems from its effectiveness, safety profile, and tolerability, especially in patients who cannot take NSAIDs due to gastrointestinal, renal, or cardiovascular risks.

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🔬 Mechanism of Action

Paracetamol works mainly in the central nervous system (CNS). Though its exact mechanism isn’t fully understood, it is believed to:

• Inhibit prostaglandin synthesis in the brain, particularly COX-2 enzymes

• Act on the hypothalamic heat-regulating center to lower fever

• Provide pain relief without significant anti-inflammatory action

Unlike NSAIDs, Paracetamol does not irritate the stomach or cause bleeding, making it safer for many patients.

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📌 Indications and Uses

Paracetamol 500mg is commonly used for:

• Fever (pyrexia) of any origin

• Headaches, including tension-type headaches and migraines

• Toothaches

• Muscle aches and back pain

• Arthralgia (joint pain)

• Dysmenorrhea (menstrual cramps)

• Osteoarthritis pain

• As part of combination therapy for cold and flu symptoms

It is also used in postoperative pain and as an opioid-sparing agent in more severe pain management plans.

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💊 Dosage and Administration

• Adults and adolescents (above 12 years):

  • One 500mg tablet every 4–6 hours as needed

  • Maximum: 4 grams (8 tablets) in 24 hours

• Children (6–12 years): Dosage should be adjusted and based on weight and age, preferably under a doctor’s guidance

• Tablets should be swallowed with water, with or without food

Avoid exceeding the recommended dose, as overdose can lead to serious liver damage.

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⚠️ Precautions and Warnings

• Use with caution in:

  • Patients with liver disease or alcohol dependence

  • Long-term use or high doses

• Not recommended for:

  • Severe hepatic impairment

  • Use with other products containing paracetamol, to avoid overdose

Routine use beyond a few days should be medically supervised.

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🤒 Side Effects

Paracetamol is usually well tolerated, but may cause:

Common:

• Rash (allergic)

• Nausea

Rare/Serious:

• Hepatotoxicity (especially with overdose)

• Skin reactions (e.g., Stevens-Johnson syndrome – extremely rare)

• Blood disorders (very rare)

Seek urgent help for symptoms of overdose, such as nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, yellowing of the skin (jaundice), or confusion.

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🔄 Drug Interactions

• Use cautiously with:

  • Warfarin (may increase bleeding risk with long-term use)

  • Alcohol (increased liver toxicity risk)

  • Other medications with paracetamol (to avoid cumulative dosing)

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🧊 Storage Instructions

• Store at room temperature (15–25°C)

• Keep in a dry place, away from moisture and sunlight

• Out of reach of children

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📝 Conclusion

Paracetamol 500mg tablet is a safe, effective, and essential medicine for treating everyday pain and fever. Its minimal side effects and lack of gastrointestinal irritation make it suitable for wide use across all age groups. When used responsibly, it provides fast, reliable relief and remains one of the most trusted medications worldwide.