💊 Daily Dose #1: Paracetamol – The Everyday Medicine

🌟 Introduction

Paracetamol is one of the most commonly used medicines in the world. Whether it’s fever, body ache, or headache, this drug is always there as the first line of relief. But do you know how it really works and why it’s considered so safe? Let’s find out!

📌 Quick Facts About Paracetamol

Feature	Details
Generic Name	Paracetamol (also called Acetaminophen in the US)
Drug Class	Analgesic (Pain reliever) & Antipyretic (Fever reducer)
Available Forms	Tablets, Syrups, Injections, Suspensions
Common Brands	Crocin, Calpol, Dolo-650, Tylenol

🔹 Uses

Paracetamol is mainly used for:

• 🌡️ Fever (in adults & children)

• 🤕 Mild to moderate pain – headache, toothache, backache, muscle pain

• 🩺 Post-vaccination fever & pain

• 🤧 Relief in cold & flu symptoms (often combined with other drugs)

🔹 Mechanism (How it Works?)

Paracetamol works by blocking prostaglandins in the brain – the chemicals responsible for pain and fever.
👉 Unlike many other painkillers, it does not irritate the stomach lining and is considered safe for most people.

🔹 Dosage (General Guidelines*)

• Adults: 500 mg – 1000 mg every 4–6 hours (Max: 4g/day)

• Children: Dose depends on weight (generally 10–15 mg/kg per dose)

⚠️ Always follow doctor’s advice for the correct dose.

⚠️ Side Effects (Rare but Possible)

✅ Generally safe at recommended doses, but overdose can cause:

• Liver damage

• Nausea, vomiting

• Allergic reactions (very rare)

💡 Fun Fact

Did you know?
👉 Paracetamol is listed in the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines, making it one of the safest and most important drugs globally! 🌍

📝 Summary

Paracetamol is your go-to medicine for fever and mild pain. It’s safe, effective, and easily available – but only when used responsibly. Overdose can be dangerous, so always stick to the prescribed limit.

✅ Next in Daily Dose Series: Stay tuned for Drug of the Day #2 tomorrow!
📌 Don’t forget to bookmark PharmaEasyNotes for your daily dose of drug knowledge.