What is Acetaminophen/Paracetamol 500mg used for?
Acetaminophen/Paracetamol 500mg is used to relieve pain and reduce fever.
Acetaminophen/Paracetamol, a pain reliever, is used to treat mild-to-moderate pain associated with the following conditions: backache, headache, toothache, menstrual cramps, muscle aches, arthritis, common cold and flu.
Acetaminophen (also known as Paracetamol) belongs to a group of medications known as analgesics (pain relievers) and antipyretics (fever reducers). Acetaminophen/Paracetamol works by stopping the production of naturally occurring chemicals in the body called prostaglandins, which cause pain and fever.
Acetaminophen/Paracetamol may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.
What are the side effects of Acetaminophen/Paracetamol 500mg?
Like other medicines, Acetaminophen/Paracetamol 500mg can cause some side effects. If they do occur, the side effects of Acetaminophen/Paracetamol are most likely to be minor and temporary. However, some may be serious and may require the individual to inform the doctor or visit the nearest hospital immediately.
It is pertinent to note that side effects of Acetaminophen/Paracetamol cannot be anticipated. If any side effects of Acetaminophen/Paracetamol develop or change in intensity, the doctor should be informed as soon as possible.
Acetaminophen/Paracetamol may cause side effects such as nausea, loss of appetite, dark urine, yellowing of the skin or eyes and clay-colored stools. This is not a complete list of all side effects. Do concur with your doctor and follow his directions completely when you are taking Acetaminophen/Paracetamol.
What is the recommended dosage of Acetaminophen/Paracetamol?
The dosage of Acetaminophen/Paracetamol prescribed to each patient will vary. Always follow your physician’s instructions and/or the directions on the prescription drug label.
Acetaminophen/Paracetamol tablets can be taken with or without food.
What if you miss a dose of Acetaminophen/Paracetamol?
Acetaminophen is usually taken on an as-needed basis. However, if your physician has instructed or directed you to take Acetaminophen/Paracetamol medication in a regular schedule and you have missed a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, then skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the doses to catch up for the missed dose.
What if you overdose on Acetaminophen/Paracetamol?
Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose of Acetaminophen/Paracetamol, seek medical attention immediately.
Symptoms of overdose of Acetaminophen/Paracetamol may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, increased sweating, loss of appetite, yellowing of eyes/skin and dark urine.
What other drugs could interact with Acetaminophen/Paracetamol 500mg?
- Carbamazepine
- Cholestyramine
- Isoniazid
- Phenobarbital
- Warfarin
It may be noted that drugs other than those listed above may also interact with Acetaminophen/Paracetamol.
Acetaminophen/Paracetamol can interact with the following type of medicines: blood thinners.
Usually drug interactions occur when it is taken with another drug or with food. Before you take a medication for a particular ailment, you should inform the health expert about intake of any other medications including non-prescription medications (over-the-counter products) and dietary supplements like vitamins, minerals and herbal, which may increase the effect of Acetaminophen/Paracetamol, so that the doctor can warn you of any possible drug interactions.
Do let your doctor know if you smoke, consume alcohol or caffeinated drinks, or use illegal drugs as these may interfere with the action of your medication. Make sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions you may have, or any family history of medical problems. Do not start or stop using any medicine without consulting your doctor.
Where can I buy Acetaminophen 500mg over the counter?
Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers are medicines you can order at a store, Acetaminophen without prescription from the doctor.
In the U.S, acetaminophen over the counter is one of the most commonly used non-prescription acetaminophen online and it is available without a prescription.
Can I buy Acetaminophen 500mg without a prescription?
Acetaminophen without prescription is an internal analgesic medicine which is available in over-the-counter (OTC) medicines.
Acetaminophen over the counter is available without a prescription, but the doctor might prescribe it to treat certain conditions.
What are the questions to ask your doctor before taking Acetaminophen/Paracetamol 500mg tablet?
Is it possible for me to take Acetaminophen/Paracetamol with other drugs?
Should certain beverages, foods and other products be avoided when I take Acetaminophen/Paracetamol?
What are the possible drug interactions of Acetaminophen/Paracetamol?
How will Acetaminophen/Paracetamol work in my body?
How should Acetaminophen/Paracetamol be taken?
How to reduce the risk of Acetaminophen/Paracetamol drug interactions and side effects?
Note
Before taking Acetaminophen/Paracetamol, tell your doctor if you have a history of alcoholism or liver disease.
While taking Acetaminophen/Paracetamol tablets, avoid drinking alcohol as this medicine may increase your risk of liver damage.
Also, tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding.
The health and medical information provided here is intended to supplement and not substitute for the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacists or other health care professional. It should not be understood to indicate that the use of Acetaminophen/Paracetamol is safe, appropriate or effective for you. Always consult your health care professional before using this, or any other, drug.