Contraindications

Paracetamol must not be taken if there is a hypersensitivity to paracetamol and chemical relatives of the substance (acetaminophen derivatives). In the case of severe damage to liver cells, the use of paracetamol should be avoided. Only after a careful risk-benefit assessment by the physician may paracetamol be used in cases of liver dysfunction, chronic alcohol abuse, severe kidney dysfunction and Gilbert’s disease. In these cases, the use of paracetamol must be monitored by a physician.

Dosage during the breastfeeding period

The active ingredient paracetamol should not be taken for a longer period of time during the breastfeeding period and not in higher doses or in combination with other agents. The maximum daily dose for adults is 4,000 milligrams of paracetamol. This corresponds to eight tablets of 500 milligrams of paracetamol each.

It has been proven that the active ingredient passes into breast milk during breastfeeding and can be absorbed by babies in small quantities. There have been observations which have led to the conclusion that paracetamol within the recommended dosage quantity can be regarded as safe for the child. Nevertheless, paracetamol should be dosed as low as possible during the breastfeeding period and applied for as short a period as possible. The maximum dose should not be exceeded.

Paracetamol or Ibuprofen, which is better?

Paracetamol is the painkiller of choice during pregnancy and lactation. It is effective for mild to moderate pain and has a fever-reducing effect. So far there is no significant evidence of intolerance on the part of the baby.

Paracetamol should not be taken if there are allergies to the active substance, liver damage or other contraindications. In such cases, ibuprofen can be used. In the case of toothache, however, ibuprofen is usually more helpful than paracetamol as it also has an anti-inflammatory effect. Ibuprofen may be taken when suffering from toothache during the nursing period.

Paracetamol against headaches in the nursing period

Paracetamol is generally considered to be a well-tolerated drug and is often used to treat headaches. Children, pregnant and breastfeeding women may also take the drug. For headaches, the maximum daily dose of 4,000 milligrams of paracetamol must not be exceeded.

There should be six to eight hours between doses. Side effects are very rare, and overdose must be avoided at all costs. Paracetamol is well suited for the relief of headaches and migraines. One should not take the headache tablets for more than three days in a row. Paracetamol is less suitable for “hangover” headaches because the active ingredient is broken down in the liver just like alcohol, and the liver is stressed by the additional intake and simultaneous breakdown of the alcohol.