Description

Panadol, developed by Sterling-Winthrop Co. and now under the GSK Consumer Healthcare umbrella in many markets, is a trusted over-the-counter medication known for its effective pain-relieving and fever-reducing properties. Its active ingredient, paracetamol (also known as acetaminophen), is widely recognized for providing relief from mild to moderate pain and reducing fever.

Key Benefits

• Pain Relief: Suitable for various types of pain including headaches, migraines, dental pain, backaches, muscular aches, arthritis, and period pain.
• Fever Reduction: Effective in lowering fever associated with common colds, flu, and post-immunisation.
• Paediatric Use: Addresses pain from teething and earaches in children, along with managing post-immunisation fever.

Available Formulations

Panadol is available in a diverse range of dosage forms and strengths to cater to different needs:

• Tablets: Including film-coated, uncoated, gelatin-coated, soluble, and effervescent forms.
• Capsules
• Oral Powders
• Oral Liquids/Suspensions
• Suppositories
• Intravenous Formulations (in select markets)

Dosage Instructions

For adults, the standard dosage is typically 500–1000 mg every 4–6 hours, with a maximum of 4000 mg in 24 hours. It is crucial to space doses at least 4 hours apart and adhere to the recommended dosage. Paediatric dosage varies and should be followed according to product-specific instructions.

Precautions

• Contraindications: Not suitable for individuals with hypersensitivity to paracetamol or its excipients.
• Caution: Advised for those with liver or kidney impairment and should not be used concurrently with other paracetamol-containing products.
• Animal Use: Not recommended for cats and should be used in dogs only under veterinary guidance.

Safety Profile

When used at recommended doses, adverse effects are rare but may include skin reactions and, in cases of overdose, severe liver damage. Panadol does not cause gastric irritation and is not a blood thinner, making it generally safe for children and short-term use during pregnancy.

Pharmacological Information

Panadol is rapidly absorbed, with peak plasma concentrations occurring within 20 minutes to 1.5 hours. It is primarily metabolized in the liver, and care should be taken to avoid overdose due to the risk of liver toxicity.

Usage Guidelines

Users are advised to follow all product instructions carefully, consult healthcare professionals if symptoms persist, and ensure they do not exceed the maximum daily dose. Panadol is included on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines, underscoring its importance and reliability in managing pain and fever effectively.