Are You Taking Too Much Paracetamol? Hint: You Could Be
Everybody takes paracetamol-based medication when they feel ill - here's what you need to know about them
Let's be real: paracetamol-based products are what the everyday Singaporean goes for when they sense themselves falling ill. In fact, the demand has seen an upward trend with the rise in Covid-19 cases, especially during the Omicron wave in the first quarter of 2022.
Paracetamol, which is offered by brands such as Panadol, Tylenol and Nuromol, has been recommended in Singapore as the default medication to take for post-vaccination aches and pains, as well as for patients recovering from Covid-19.
Dr Raymond Ong, senior doctor at Doctor Anywhere, explains: “More recently, we are seeing a local demand for paracetamol products during Covid-19 and the Omicron wave. This comes especially as home recovery is encouraged for those who had mild symptoms of the virus, and paracetamol is a helpful medicine to have at home to alleviate Covid-19 symptoms such as fever or headaches.”
So, how exactly does paracetamol work?
“Paracetamol, also known as acetaminophen, is a medicine that is well-established with few reported side effects, and can be used to reduce fever, headaches, body aches as well as general pain,” says Dr Ong. “The medicine has been available for over 70 years and is one of the most commonly used pain relievers worldwide.”
“Paracetamol is an analgesic and an antipyretic. To put it simply, it is a medication that can relieve pain and lower body temperature,” he adds.
When our body is in pain, it produces prostaglandins (chemicals that control the immune process of the body) in response to injuries and diseases. Dr Ong says that paracetamol presumably reduces prostaglandins and makes us feel less pain, thereby increasing pain tolerance.
Is there any difference between Panadol, Tylenol, Nuromol, and other paracetamol brands then?
All these brands contain the active ingredient paracetamol or acetaminophen, so theoretically, they share this basic purpose, which is to relieve pain.
This is a common misconception that should be dispelled. Paracetamol is typically prescribed to those who require relief for mild or moderate pain, such as body aches, headaches and reducing fevers. However, it is not a one-size-fits-all solution and should still be subjected to a health professional’s advice.
While paracetamol does not treat Covid-19, it is safe for Covid-19 patients to use paracetamol for pain management.
“For mild to moderate symptoms in particular, paracetamol can be a supportive tool to reduce discomfort and pain from symptoms such as fever and headaches. In addition to sufficient rest and plenty of water, patients who have Covid can use paracetamol as part of home treatments for the virus,” Dr Ong advises.
Paracetamol can be a supportive tool to help reduce discomfort and pain for mild to moderate symptoms such as fever and headaches. It usually comes in tablet form and upon consumption, typically takes 15 to 30 minutes to provide relief. The effects typically last for four to six hours, depending on the dosage for each paracetamol product, which vary from brand to brand. It is important to refer to the product information or consult a medical professional for advice if you’re unsure.
It is not recommended to consume paracetamol with other paracetamol products as this may lead to an increased risk of overdose, which may result in a detrimental health impact. If you’re also taking other medications – including supplements and herbal remedies – inform your healthcare professional before taking paracetamol.
Paracetamol may also not be suitable for those with existing health problems such as liver problems, kidney disease or allergic reactions to ingredients of paracetamol products.
Paracetamol is safe to take during pregnancy. Pregnant women may experience several body aches or headaches and paracetamol may be helpful to alleviate mild pains.
Text: Balvinder Sandhu/HerWorld