What is Paracetamol Tablets ?
Paracetamol, also known as acetaminophen in the United States and Canada, is a widely used over-the-counter medication known for its analgesic (pain-relieving) and antipyretic (fever-reducing) properties. It is available in various forms, including tablets, capsules, and liquid formulations.
Paracetamol tablets are a specific form of this medication that comes in a solid, pill-like form. They are designed to be swallowed whole with water. These tablets are commonly used to alleviate mild to moderate pain and reduce feve
Paracetamol Tablets Uses
- Pain Relief: Paracetamol is widely used to alleviate mild to moderate pain. This includes headaches, muscle aches, toothaches, menstrual cramps, and pain associated with conditions like osteoarthritis.
- Fever Reduction: It is commonly used to lower fever in cases of fever associated with illnesses like the flu, common cold, or other infections.
- Post-Surgery Pain: Paracetamol may be used after surgical procedures to manage pain and reduce fever.
- Pain Associated with Chronic Conditions: It can be used to provide ongoing relief from pain associated with chronic conditions, such as arthritis.
- Pain Relief for Children: Paracetamol is one of the preferred medications for pain relief in children, as it is generally considered safe when used at appropriate doses.
- Combination Formulations: Paracetamol is often included in combination with other active ingredients in medications designed to address multiple symptoms, such as cold and flu remedies.
- Safe for Certain Populations: Paracetamol is often considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding when taken at recommended doses. It is also sometimes recommended for individuals with certain medical conditions, like liver disease, where other pain relievers may not be suitable.
Paracetamol Tablets – Mechanism of Action and Pharmacology
Inhibition of Prostaglandin Synthesis:
- Paracetamol is thought to primarily exert its analgesic (pain-relieving) and antipyretic (fever-reducing) effects by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins in the central nervous system. Prostaglandins are lipid compounds that are involved in inflammation, pain sensation, and regulation of body temperature.
- Unlike nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or aspirin, which also inhibit prostaglandin production but do so peripherally in various tissues, paracetamol’s action is primarily within the central nervous system.
2. COX Enzyme Inhibition:
- While NSAIDs predominantly inhibit the enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX) in both the central nervous system and peripheral tissues, the specific COX isoforms targeted by paracetamol are not fully clear. Some research suggests it may have a selective effect on COX-2, which is more prevalent in the central nervous system and involved in pain perception and fever response.
3. Limited Anti-inflammatory Effects:
- Unlike NSAIDs, which have significant anti-inflammatory properties, paracetamol has relatively weak anti-inflammatory effects. It is generally not the first choice for conditions characterized by prominent inflammation, such as rheumatoid arthritis.
4. Lack of Gastrointestinal Effects:
- One of the advantages of paracetamol over NSAIDs is its relatively low potential to cause gastrointestinal irritation or ulcers, as it does not have a significant effect on COX enzymes in the digestive tract.
Paracetamol Tablets- Composition and Active Ingredients
- Microcrystalline Cellulose: Often used as a filler and binder in pharmaceuticals.
- Pregelatinized Starch: This is used to help with disintegration and dissolution of the tablet.
- Starch: Another common excipient used for binding and disintegration.
- Povidone (Polyvinylpyrrolidone): Often used as a binder, disintegrant, and solubilizing agent.
- Sodium Starch Glycolate: This is a super-disintegrant, which helps the tablet break apart in the digestive tract.
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate: Used as a surfactant to aid in dissolution.
- Sodium Metabisulfite: An antioxidant that can help preserve the stability of the tablet.
- Magnesium Stearate: Often used as a lubricant to aid in the tablet manufacturing process.
Paracetamol Tablets – Side-effect
- Nausea and Upset Stomach: Some people may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort or nausea after taking paracetamol.
- Allergic Reactions: While rare, some individuals may be allergic to paracetamol. Signs of an allergic reaction can include rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, severe dizziness, and difficulty breathing.
- Liver Damage (in cases of overdose): Taking too much paracetamol can lead to liver toxicity, which can be life-threatening. Symptoms of overdose may include loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, confusion, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes).
