Paracetamol
Paracetamol is used for mild to moderate pain and to reduce fever. In the UK it is widely available from pharmacies and shops and is often a first-line choice for many types of pain when NSAIDs are unsuitable. It does not reduce inflammation like ibuprofen or naproxen.
This medicine is part of the Pain relief category.
Generic name: paracetamol
Quick answers
Short replies to searches people often run before speaking to a clinician. For the overview of what the medicine is used for, see the short summary under the page title above.
What is it for?
Paracetamol is used for mild to moderate pain and to reduce fever.
How long does it take to work?
Onset varies by condition and dose. Your GP or pharmacist can explain what to expect and when to review.
What are common side effects?
Paracetamol is usually well tolerated.
Can you take paracetamol or ibuprofen with it?
Warfarin effect can be altered by regular high-dose paracetamol — your clinic may monitor INR more closely.
Compare this medicine
Side-by-side guides and related reads — use these links for fuller context; they do not mean you should switch treatment yourself.
- Ibuprofen vs Paracetamol — side-by-side guide
More about what Paracetamol is used for
Paracetamol is used for mild to moderate pain and to reduce fever. In the UK it is widely available from pharmacies and shops and is often a first-line choice for many types of pain when NSAIDs are unsuitable.
It does not reduce inflammation like Ibuprofen or Naproxen. It does not treat the cause of ongoing pain — see your GP if pain persists.
How does Paracetamol work, and how long does it take to work?
The exact way paracetamol works is not fully understood; it is thought to act on pain and temperature pathways in the brain.
It is not an NSAID and does not usually irritate the stomach the way Ibuprofen can, though any medicine can cause side effects in some people.
How and when should you take Paracetamol?
Follow the dose on the pack or prescription — for adults this is commonly up to 1 g per dose and a maximum daily total (often 4 g in 24 hours for healthy adults unless your prescriber advises less).
Leave at least 4 hours between doses. Use the correct measure for children’s liquids and never exceed the child’s maximum for their age and weight.
What are the common side effects of Paracetamol?
Paracetamol is usually well tolerated. Rarely, people have allergic reactions or blood problems.
The main danger is overdose — never exceed the stated maximum and check all cold/flu products for hidden paracetamol.
Serious side effects of Paracetamol — when to get urgent help
Paracetamol overdose can cause severe liver damage and is a medical emergency. Seek immediate help (999 or A&E) if you may have taken too much, even if you feel well at first.
Seek urgent help for severe allergic symptoms such as facial swelling or difficulty breathing.
What if you miss a dose of Paracetamol?
If you take paracetamol regularly and miss a dose, take it when you remember if needed for pain or fever, provided you respect minimum spacing and daily maximum.
Do not double up to catch up.
Who should not take Paracetamol?
People with severe liver disease may need lower doses or avoidance — your prescriber will advise.
Check with your pharmacist if you drink alcohol heavily, are underweight, or take Warfarin or other medicines, as monitoring or dose limits may apply.
Can you take paracetamol or ibuprofen with Paracetamol? — other interactions
Warfarin effect can be altered by regular high-dose paracetamol — your clinic may monitor INR more closely.
Many over-the-counter cold remedies contain paracetamol — do not double up.
Paracetamol in pregnancy and breastfeeding
Paracetamol is commonly used in pregnancy and breastfeeding when needed at usual doses; discuss with your midwife or GP if you need it often.
Blood tests and monitoring on Paracetamol
Routine monitoring is not usually needed for occasional use. Regular use with other medicines may prompt occasional checks as your prescriber advises.
What might your GP prescribe instead of Paracetamol?
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Frequently asked questions about Paracetamol
People also ask — common Google searches
- What is Paracetamol used for?
- Paracetamol is used for mild to moderate pain and to reduce fever. In the UK it is widely available from pharmacies and shops and is often a first-line choice for many types of pain when NSAIDs are unsuitable. It does not reduce inflammation like Ibuprofen or Naproxen.
- How long does Paracetamol take to work?
- Onset varies by condition and dose. Your GP or pharmacist can explain what to expect and when to review. Always follow your prescriber’s follow-up plan.
- Can you take Paracetamol with paracetamol or ibuprofen?
- Warfarin effect can be altered by regular high-dose paracetamol — your clinic may monitor INR more closely.
- What are the side effects of Paracetamol?
- Paracetamol is usually well tolerated. Rarely, people have allergic reactions or blood problems. See the sections below for more detail, including serious side effects and when to seek urgent help.
- What is the maximum paracetamol dose per day?
- For most healthy adults the usual upper limit is 4 g in 24 hours from all sources combined, but your prescriber may set a lower limit. Always read the pack.
- Can I take paracetamol with ibuprofen?
- Many adults can alternate or combine short term with correct spacing and limits if both are safe for them — ask your pharmacist, especially for children.
Need personalised advice?
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Often used with
People searching for Paracetamol often read about these medicines too — for example when treatments are combined under GP or specialist care. This is not a prescribing suggestion.
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