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Paracetamol medicine is commonly used to reduce fever, relieve flu and cold symptoms, to cure headaches and toothaches. But just like other medical drugs, paracetamol may also pose a risk of certain side effects. What are the side effects of paracetamol that can arise?
Not everyone can take paracetamol, you know!
Paracetamol is a pain reliever drug that is generally safe for use by all people, including pregnant women and nursing mothers. Infants from 2 months of age and older can also take low doses of paracetamol, as an alternative to taking ibuprofen.
However, if you have one or more of the following problems, doctors usually will not recommend you to use paracetamol:
- Have liver or kidney disease.
- Heavy drinkers.
- Have very low body weight.
- Have a paracetamol allergy.
In addition, if you are on certain other medications, your doctor may recommend other, safer pain relievers.
What are the side effects of paracetamol?
Paracetamol side effects are actually rare, but they can cause:
- Allergic reactions. This reaction can cause a skin rash or swelling. One in 100 people can experience this condition.
- Low blood pressure and fast heart rate. Often this occurs with paracetamol which is given as an injection in the hospital.
- Blood disorders. For example thrombocytopenia (low platelet count) and leukopenia (low white blood cell count). This effect is rare. Only or in 1000 people are at risk of developing this condition.
- Liver and kidney disorders. Liver and kidney damage can occur if you take or use too many doses of paracetamol. This is the most severe side effect.
- Symptoms of a drug overdose. Paracetamol is safe if used according to dosage instructions. However, because this drug is commonly incorporated into many other drugs, you run the risk of taking too many doses without knowing it. Symptoms range from nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, excessive sweating, abdominal pain, feeling very tired, cloudy or yellow eyes, very dark colored urine.
