Paracetamol: Why This Drug Has Been Loved by the Medical Fraternity for Decades

By Shriniwas Jadhav
Pune, 28th August 2024: Medicines have saved millions of lives and provided relief from pain for countless people. Over the years, many molecules have been discovered and used extensively for the benefit of millions. While some of these molecules have been successful, others were banned or had their use restricted due to potential side effects. However, a few have stood the test of time due to their proven safety profile. Among them, paracetamol is widely regarded as one of the safest drugs for treating pain and fever.

Paracetamol is known for its minimal side effects compared to other analgesics and antipyretics. It remains the most commonly used medication by healthcare professionals due to its safety profile and effectiveness. From suspensions for children to tablets for adults, paracetamol is preferred for its efficacy across all age groups.

Despite its widespread use, paracetamol should always be taken as prescribed by a doctor, as an overdose can lead to liver toxicity. In fact, paracetamol overdose is a major cause of acute liver failure. The usual dose for adults is two 500 mg tablets every 4 to 6 hours.

Most brands available in the market combine paracetamol with other drugs, such as phenylephrine and cetirizine, to enhance their effects. Paracetamol is available in almost every pharmacy store across the country, making it one of the most popular medicines in India.

Not only in India, but paracetamol is also widely used worldwide, as it is approved by almost all relevant health authorities. From dental pain to muscular pain, paracetamol is the most commonly prescribed drug. Interestingly, almost every household has paracetamol on hand, which underscores how widely this drug is used as an analgesic.