Side effects

Paracetamol is a well tolerated drug. There are no frequent side effects when used properly. Rare to very rare side effects are

Disturbance of blood formation
Allergic reactions
Stomach pain/nausea
Increase in liver enzymes
Cramping of the airwaysDistress

The active ingredient is completely metabolized in the liver after about 2 hours.

If the doses are exceeded or in combination with alcohol, acute poisoning may occur. In these cases, the liver may be irreversibly damaged. Paracetamol is excreted via the kidneys.

If the kidney is regularly and permanently stressed, this can cause damage. Paracetamol also inhibits the action of prostaglandins and prostacyclins in the kidney. This can lead to poorer blood circulation in the kidney.

Consequently, the filtering function of the kidney is at risk. Chronic abuse can damage the kidneys. In acute poisoning, the liver can no longer metabolise and break down the active paracetamol.

In these cases, the body’s own glutathione is used up. This leads to acute liver damage. The antidote for acute poisoning with paracetamol is acetylcysteine.

Like glutathione, acetylcysteine has so-called SH groups. This property enables acetylcysteine to bind the toxic substances and then excrete them via the kidneys. If poisoning with paracetamol is suspected, a doctor should be consulted immediately.

Paracetamol during pregnancy

The guidelines allow the use of paracetamol during pregnancy. If a painkiller has to be used during pregnancy, paracetamol is the first choice according to the guidelines. However, the intake should be kept as low as possible.

Regular intake should be avoided. The recommendations are based on experience. As the mechanism of action of paracetamol is not yet fully understood, it is difficult to assess its effects on the embryo.

Recently, there is increasing suspicion that there may be a connection between ADHD and the use of paracetamol during pregnancy. It is still unclear whether and how connections exist or whether there are other connections. These suspicions have not yet been proven. It is generally recommended to decide according to a benefit-harm ratio for the expectant mother and the unborn child. There should be an exchange with the gynecologist.