Panadol Tablets: A Comprehensive Guide to Usage, Dosage, and Precautions

 Panadol Tablets are a widely used medication for the relief of pain and fever. This blog post provides a detailed overview of Panadol Tablets, including their composition, indications, dosage, precautions, and more. All information is sourced from the official patient information leaflet, ensuring accuracy and reliability.

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Composition

Each tablet of Panadol contains 500mg of paracetamol Ph. Eur. Paracetamol is a clinically proven analgesic [a medication that relieves pain] and antipyretic [a medication that reduces fever]. It works by inhibiting the synthesis of prostaglandins [substances in the body that cause pain and inflammation] both centrally (in the brain) and peripherally (in other parts of the body).

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Indications

Panadol Tablets are indicated for the relief of pain and fever associated with the following conditions:

• Headache
• Migraine
• Common colds and flu
• Sore throat
• Earache
• Toothache
• Backache
• Rheumatic and muscular pain
• Neuralgia [pain along the course of a nerve]
• Period pain

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Dosage and Administration

Panadol Tablets are suitable for adults and children over 6 years of age. For younger children, other forms of Panadol (e.g., Panadol Drops, Panadol Baby & Infant Suspension, Panadol Suppositories, Panadol Chewable, and Panadol Junior Caplets) are recommended.

Adults

• Two tablets up to four times a day.
• Do not take more than 8 tablets in 24 hours.
• If necessary, the dose may be repeated every four hours, but do not exceed four doses in 24 hours.

Children (6 to 12 years)

• Half to one tablet up to four times a day.
• Do not exceed 4 tablets in 24 hours.
• Not recommended for children under 6 years.

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Contraindications

Panadol Tablets are contraindicated [not recommended] in patients with known hypersensitivity [allergic reaction] to paracetamol.

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Precautions

• Avoid Double Dosing: Do not take other paracetamol-containing medications at the same time.
• Storage: Keep this and all medication out of the reach of children.
• Liver or Kidney Damage: Use Panadol with caution in cases of severe liver or kidney damage.
• Duration of Use: Do not take this product for pain for more than 10 days or for fever for more than 3 days unless directed by a doctor.
• Consult a Doctor: If pain or fever persists or worsens, or if new symptoms occur (e.g., redness or swelling), consult a doctor, as these could be signs of a serious condition. If a sore throat is severe and persists for more than 2 days, or is accompanied by fever, headache, rash, nausea, or vomiting, consult a doctor promptly.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Although there is epidemiological evidence of the safety of paracetamol during pregnancy and lactation [breastfeeding], medical advice should be sought before using this product.

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Side Effects

When taken in recommended doses, Panadol is usually free from side effects. However, skin reactions such as urticaria [hives or skin rash] have been reported rarely.

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Drug Interactions

Panadol Tablets may interact with anticoagulant agents [medications that prevent blood clotting] on prothrombin time [a measure of how long it takes blood to clot]. The liver effects of Panadol Tablets may be increased by the use of alcohol and certain drugs that enhance the metabolism of Panadol in the liver (e.g., barbiturates, tricyclic antidepressants). The anticoagulant effect of warfarin [a blood-thinning medication] and other coumarins may be enhanced by prolonged daily use of paracetamol, with an increased risk of bleeding. Occasional doses have no significant effect.

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Overdosage

In massive overdosage exceeding 10g, Panadol Tablets may cause liver damage. Early symptoms may include pallor [paleness], nausea, vomiting, diaphoresis [excessive sweating], and general malaise [feeling unwell]. Clinical and laboratory evidence of liver damage may not be apparent until 48 to 72 hours post-ingestion. Overdose should be promptly treated by gastric lavage [stomach pumping] followed by intravenous N-acetylcysteine or methionine without waiting for the results of plasma paracetamol levels. Additional antidote therapy is normally considered based on further plasma paracetamol levels and the time elapsed since ingestion. In all cases of suspected overdose, prompt medical attention is critical for adults and children, even if no signs or symptoms are noticed.

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Pharmaceutical Precautions

• Store below 25°C.
• Store in a well-sealed container.

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Manufacturer Information

Panadol is a registered trademark of GlaxoSmithKline. It is manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline Dungarvan Limited, Dungarvan, Ireland.

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Important Reminders

• Follow Instructions: Medicines are products that affect your health, and failure to follow the instructions may be dangerous. Always follow your doctor's advice, the method of use, and the instructions of the pharmacist who sold you the medicine.
• Consult Professionals: Your doctor and pharmacist are experts in the use of medicines, their benefits, and risks. Do not stop your course of treatment early unless advised to do so by your doctor or pharmacist. Do not repeat the same prescription without consulting your doctor.
• Keep Medicines Safe: Keep medicines out of the reach of children.

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Latest Information

This information is based on the patient information leaflet revised by the Council of Arab Health Ministers and the Union of Arab Pharmacists in November 2005. For the most up-to-date information, consult your healthcare provider or the official Panadol website.

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Conclusion

Panadol Tablets are a trusted and effective solution for managing pain and fever. By following the dosage guidelines and precautions, you can safely use this medication to alleviate symptoms associated with various conditions. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist for personalized advice.