Paracetamol
How should I take paracetamol?
Source: NHS
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Make sure you take paracetamol as directed on the label or leaflet, or as instructed by a health professional.
How much you can take depends on your age, your weight, the type of paracetamol you're taking and how strong it is.
For example:
- Adults can usually take 1 or 2 500mg tablets every 4 to 6 hours, but shouldn't take more than 4g (8 500mg tablets) in the space of 24 hours.
- Children under 16 need to take a lower dose, depending on their age or weight – check the packet or leaflet, or ask a pharmacist or doctor for advice. For very young children, paracetamol liquid is given using a measuring spoon or an oral syringe.
Paracetamol should start to work within an hour and the effect usually lasts several hours. Don't take more than the recommended dose if it isn't relieving your symptoms.
Adults can take ibuprofen at the same time if necessary, but this isn't usually recommended for children. For more details, see Can I take paracetamol and ibuprofen together?
Be careful not to use other medications that contain paracetamol as an ingredient (such as some cold and flu remedies) while you're taking paracetamol.
Articles for Paracetamol
Can I give my child paracetamol and ibuprofen at the same time?
No, don't give your child paracetamol and ibuprofen at the same time, unless advised to by a healthcare professional. If you give them one of these medicines and they're still distressed before the next dose is due, you could try the other medicine instead.
Can I take paracetamol and ibuprofen together?
If you're 16 or over, it's safe to take paracetamol and ibuprofen together as there are no known harmful interactions between these medicines. The advice for children is different.
Can I take paracetamol or ibuprofen with cough or cold medicines?
It depends whether the cough or cold medicine also contains paracetamol or ibuprofen. Avoid exceeding the maximum dose, you should not take paracetamol or ibuprofen if you're already taking a cough or cold medicine that contains these ingredients.
How should I take paracetamol?
Make sure you take paracetamol as directed on the label or leaflet, or as instructed by a health professional. How much you can take depends on your age, your weight, the type of paracetamol you're taking and how strong it is.
Introduction
Paracetamol is a commonly used medicine that can help treat pain and reduce a high temperature (fever). It is often recommended as one of the first treatments for pain, as it's safe for most people to take and side effects are rare.
Overdoses of paracetamol
Taking too much paracetamol, known as an overdose, can be very dangerous. If you've taken more than the recommended maximum dose, go to your nearest accident and emergency (A&E) department as soon as possible.
Side effects of paracetamol
Side effects from paracetamol are rare, but can include: an allergic reaction, flushing, low blood pressure, blood disorders, liver and kidney damage if you take too much. Speak to a pharmacist or doctor if you develop any troublesome side effects.
Taking paracetamol with other medicines
Paracetamol can react unpredictably with certain other medications. This can affect how well either medicine works and might increase the risk of side effects.
Who can take paracetamol?
Most people can take paracetamol safely, including: pregnant women, breastfeeding women, children over 2 months of age (lower doses are recommended for young children). Always get advice before taking paracetamol.
