How does it work? It relieves musculoskeletal
pain, when that is not associated with major inflammation. It relieves pain probably by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis in the brain, but not in the peripheral areas. This explains the lack of anti-inflammatory action. Its antipyretic effect (reducing fever) is comparable to aspirin, and its analgesic properties are comparable to aspirin and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents, e.g. Brufen, Voltaren.
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Name a paracetamol painkiller Panado, Dolorol, Tylenol Paracetomol plus codeine: Panado-Co,
Dolorol Forte, Suncodin
Who can benefit from paracetamol?
Painkillers like paracetamol has been shown to be an
effective painkiller in a high percentage of rheumatological sufferers in need
of pain relief.
Paracetomol is the first line of pain treatment for
osteoarthritis, followed by paracetomol with codeine, followed by propoxyphene
(Doxyphene) for severe night time pain or pain related to activity.
Many people with rheumatological disorders susch as
osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, juvenile chronic
arthritis and Reiter’s syndrome have symptoms such as pain and stiffness and
need relief of these symptoms.
The benefits of painkillers like paracetomol are: pain
relief, and therefore more movement, which in turn will result in less pain.
Its relieves pain probably by inhibiting prostaglandin
synthesis in the brain, but not in the peripherial areas. This explains the lack
of anti-inflammatory action.
What dose should I take? The
recommended adult dose is 500 – 1000 mg every 4 – 6 hours, with maximum 4000 mg
in a 24 hour period. For treatment of osteoarthritis 1000mg every 6 hours is
recommended. The dose for children: 10 mg for every kg weight of the child.
Children 3 – 12 months: 60 – 120 mg, 3 – 4 times in 24 hours;
Children 1 – 5 years: 120 – 250 mg, 3 – 4 times in 24 hours Children 6 –
12 years: 250 – 500 mg, 3 – 4 times in 24 hours
What are
the possible side-effects? The possible adverse effects of longterm
use of excessive doses or an overdose of these painkillers include liver and/or
kidney damage.
In rare cases it can lead to blood disorders, and
hypersensitivity skin reactions(skin rashes).
The use of more than eight 500-mg tablets per 24 hours for
adults can cause liver damage. Do not exceed this dosage.
Can I take other medication at the same
time? Yes. Many people use paracetamol in combination with other
medication like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) because the
combination can enhance the effect of pain relief, e.g. Brufen, Voltaren, Nurofen. No: Monitor very
carefully when person is already taking any oral anti-coagulant medication to
make the blood less likely to clot, e.g Warfarin, aspirin.
Who should not take
paracetamol? · People with impaired liver function
· People with kidney disease · Alcoholics · People
with anaemia and other blood disorders · Be careful when using
aspirin, warfarin or any other medication with an anti-clotting
effect.
It is considered safe for porphyria sufferers.
Can I take paracetamol during pregnancy and
breastfeeding? It is medication of choice for treatment of pain and
fever in pregnant women. Longterm use of high dosages may have a toxic effect on
the fetus, but therapeutic dosages are considered safe.
It is excreted in breast milk, and is regarded safe for
use during breastfeeding.
Is it safe for children? Yes, it is
regarded safe for children, if the prescribed dose is not exceeded. High and
prolonged use can lead to kidney and liver damage, and blood disorders.
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