Paracetamol®

Like Ibuprofen®, Paracetamol® is used in the treatment of mild to moderate pain. As a non-opioid analgesic, it acts by inhibiting the cyclooxygenase enzyme. In addition to pain relief, the drug also reduces fever.

Children can be treated with Paracetamol® thanks to its good tolerability. Paracetamol® can be taken for flu-like infections and cold symptoms, as well as for mild pain and headaches. In most cases it is Paracetamol® in tablet form.

Suppositories, on the other hand, are used for children and infants. Paracetamol® is often offered in combination with other active ingredients and caffeine. In this way, the pain-inhibiting component is strengthened.In case of known hypersensitivity Paracetamol® should not be taken.

If there are previous illnesses of the liver or kidney or an increased bilirubin content of the blood, Paracetamol® may only be used after consultation with a physician. If Paracetamol® is taken correctly, side effects are rarely to be expected. If Paracetamol® is taken in low doses over a longer period of time, headaches may occur.

High doses over a long period of time as well as an overdose (from six grams) are associated with liver damage up to and including liver failure. The combined intake of Paracetamol® and sleeping pills and antiepileptic drugs can lead to considerable side effects. If the metabolism of Paracetamol® in the liver is disturbed, toxic breakdown products can be produced in addition to liver damage.

Paracetamol® also interferes with the breakdown of the antibiotic chloramphenicol and drugs that affect gastric emptying. These are also metabolized via the liver. During treatment with the HIV drug zidovudine, Paracetamol® may only be taken after consulting a doctor.

Since both alcohol and Paracetamol® are metabolized via the liver, a combination of the two should be avoided. Paracetamol® should only be taken for a short time during pregnancy. It is important to consult with the doctor treating you. The same recommendation applies during breastfeeding as during pregnancy.