Paracetamol (Panadol)

Paracetamol (Panadol) – Full Introduction

Panadol is a widely used over-the-counter analgesic (pain reliever) and antipyretic (fever reducer). Its generic name is paracetamol (also known as acetaminophen in the US and Canada). It is commonly used for mild to moderate pain and fever in adults and children.

Drug Class

Analgesic
Antipyretic

Mechanism of Action

The exact mechanism of paracetamol is not fully understood, but it is thought to work by:

Inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis in the central nervous system (CNS), which reduces pain and fever
Minimal peripheral anti-inflammatory effects, so it is not classified as an NSAID

Unlike NSAIDs, paracetamol does not significantly affect platelet function or gastric mucosa, making it safer for patients with bleeding disorders or gastric issues.

Therapeutic Uses

Mild to moderate pain (headache, toothache, musculoskeletal pain, menstrual cramps)
Fever reduction (pyrexia)
Adjunct in post-operative pain management
Can be combined with other medications for severe pain (e.g., opioids)

Benefits

Effective and fast-acting analgesic and antipyretic
Well-tolerated in most patients
Safe for children and elderly when dosed correctly
Minimal gastrointestinal side effects compared to NSAIDs
Can be used in patients with cardiovascular or kidney issues (with caution at high doses)

Common Side Effects

Generally well tolerated
Rare allergic reactions (rash, itching)

Serious but Rare Side Effects

Hepatotoxicity (liver damage), especially in overdose or in patients with liver disease or chronic alcohol use
Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis, very rare)
Blood disorders like thrombocytopenia (extremely rare)

Contraindications & Precautions

Severe liver disease
Allergy to paracetamol
Avoid excessive use with other paracetamol-containing medications
Use cautiously in chronic alcoholics or malnourished patients

Dosage & Administration

Adults: 500 mg – 1 g every 4–6 hours, maximum 4 g/day
Children: Weight-based dosing (generally 10–15 mg/kg per dose, max 60 mg/kg/day)
Available in oral tablets, suspensions, suppositories, and IV formulations

Conclusion

Panadol (paracetamol) is a safe, effective, and widely used pain reliever and fever reducer when used at recommended doses. It is preferred over NSAIDs in patients with gastrointestinal or cardiovascular risks, but overdose can cause severe liver damage, so careful attention to total daily dose is crucial.

Paracetamol (Panadol)