Overview:
Paracetamol (also known as acetaminophen) is one of the safest and most commonly used painkillers. It helps reduce mild to moderate pain and lowers fever. People often use it for headaches, colds, toothache, muscle pain, or period pain. It’s gentle on the stomach, which makes it a good option if you can’t take ibuprofen or aspirin.
How It Works:
Paracetamol works mainly in the brain, where it blocks signals that cause pain and reduces the temperature control centre’s activity during fever. Unlike other painkillers, it doesn’t reduce swelling or inflammation in the body. This is why it’s often used for everyday aches rather than inflammatory conditions like arthritis.
Mode of Action:
Once swallowed, paracetamol is absorbed into the bloodstream and travels to the brain. It changes the way your body perceives pain and helps lower your temperature when you’re unwell. Most of it is broken down safely by the liver, but taking too much can overwhelm your liver and cause serious damage — which is why the maximum daily dose (4,000 mg for adults) should never be exceeded.
Common Side Effects:
- Generally well tolerated
- Mild nausea or stomach upset
- Occasional skin rash or itching
Serious Side Effects:
- Liver damage from taking more than the recommended amount
- Kidney problems (from very high or prolonged use)
- Severe allergic reactions (rare, but can include swelling, wheezing, or difficulty breathing)
