The NHS advises that several key groups of people should take steps before taking this medication
Paracetamol – the main active ingredient of Disprol, Hedex, Medinol and Panadol – is found in practically every chemist and supermarket. It’s often hailed for its ability to ease various aches, pains, and flu symptoms, with 200 million packets sold without prescription each year in the UK alone.
However, it’s important to remember that paracetamol isn’t suitable for all people. The NHS advises that specific groups of people should consult a doctor or pharmacist before taking this medicine. This includes anyone who has had an allergic reaction to paracetamol or any other medicine, as well as those who have experienced liver or kidney issues, according to Wales Online.
In addition to these groups, there are others who should also be cautious with paracetamol:
- People who take certain medications
- Anyone who has ever had an allergic reaction to paracetamol or another medicine
- People with liver or kidney problems
- Anyone who regularly drinks more than the maximum amount of alcohol recommended (14 units per week)
- People who weigh less than 50kg (eight stone) might require a lower dosage
Official guidance from the NHS explains: “Most people aged 16 and over can take paracetamol. You can also take it if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.” It also adds: “Paracetamol can take up to an hour to work. It keeps on working for about five hours.”
While standard paracetamol is generally safe to use alongside most prescription medications and antibiotics, there are some exceptions. If you’re prescribed warfarin to prevent blood clots or any medication for epilepsy or tuberculosis, it’s recommended to consult a doctor before taking paracetamol.
Meanwhile, in the case of other painkillers, the NHS adds: “It’s safe to take paracetamol with other types of painkiller that do not contain paracetamol, such as ibuprofen, aspirin or codeine.
“Do not take paracetamol alongside other medicines that contain paracetamol. If you take two different medicines that contain paracetamol, there’s a risk of overdose.”
Standard adults can generally consume two 500mg regular paracetamol tablets four times within 24 hours, ensuring at least four hours between each dose. It’s advised not to exceed eight tablets during this period.
Although paracetamol remains safe for most situations, this guidance comes after a study from the University of Nottingham that highlighted potential dangers of prolonged usage. The research, released last November, cautioned that regular doses in older patients might heighten risks of cardiac, digestive, and renal complications.
During their investigation, researchers analysed medical data from 180,483 people aged 65 and above who had received paracetamol prescriptions. These were compared against 402,478 people of similar age who hadn’t used the drug.
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The results proved alarming, showing that ‘prolonged paracetamol usage’ could substantially increase chances of ‘serious complications’, including heart failure, elevated blood pressure, gastric ulcers, and chronic kidney disease.
Consequently, the research team urged a ‘careful reconsideration’ of prescribing paracetamol as the primary option for managing persistent pain.
Lead author Professor Weiya Zhang explained at the time: “Whilst further research is now needed to confirm our findings, given its minimal pain-relief effect, the use of paracetamol as a first-line pain killer for long-term conditions such as osteoarthritis in older people needs to be carefully considered.”
Visit the NHS website for more information on paracetamol. Always read the packaging for specific instructions on taking drugs like Disprol, Hedex, Medinol, Panadol, and others containing paracetamol as an active ingredient, as instructions may vary.