Painkillers, paracetamol - Special considerations
- Introduction
- Special considerations
- Side effects of paracetamol
- Interactions with other medicines
- Missed or extra doses of paracetamol
When taking paracetamol, do not exceed the maximum dosage stated on the packet or patient information leaflet.
Be careful to avoid taking paracetamol with other products that contain paracetamol. The packaging should state whether a product contains paracetamol or not, and how much.
Do not take paracetamol if you have ever had an allergic reaction to any of the ingredients.
Use with caution
Paracetamol should be used with caution in people who have:
- liver problems
- kidney problems
- alcohol dependence
- long-term malnutrition or dehydration
Paracetamol is usually safe to take orally for those with kidney problems. Ask your GP or pharmacist for more information.
Pregnancy
Paracetamol has been used routinely through all stages of pregnancy to reduce a high temperature (fever) and relieve pain. There is no clear evidence that paracetamol has any harmful effects on the baby.
As with any medicine that is used during pregnancy, paracetamol should be taken at the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time.
Breastfeeding
Paracetamol is considered to be the best choice of pain relief for use when breastfeeding. The amount of paracetamol that is likely to pass into breast milk is too small to be harmful to the baby.
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