What is Panadol?
Panadol is a medication that is a mild analgesic and antipyretic. Panadol is used in more than 80 countries and regions around the world. It offers rapid and effective relief from pain and also reduces fever, leaving you free from the symptoms that are troubling you. Panadol is a brand name of the drug and the component is acetaminophen, also known as paracetamol. Paracetamol is classified into a group of medicines call analgesic which is a pain reliever, and antipyretics which reduces fever. Thus, this drug works quickly to relieve pain caused by conditions such as headache, osteoarthritis and reduce fever caused by infections. However, Panadol does not reduce inflammation, unlike acetylsalicylic acid (ASA).
What can Panadol be used for?
Panadol is indicated to temporarily relieve pain and discomfort associated with headache, rheumatic pain, etc. It can also be used to reduce fever.
- Fever
As Panadol has an antipyretic effect, it can be used to help reduce fever and make you feel better. It is an antipyretic that helps reset your body’s thermostat and lowers the raised temperature. The normal temperature of the body is 37°C but it can vary according to the time of the day. If your temperature is more than 38°C measured from the mouth, you are considered to have a fever.
- Headaches
Panadol with its analgesic effects can be used to relieve headaches. Headaches can be troubling and they may be throbbing, sharp, dull, and pinpointed. Headaches can last for a few minutes or a few days. Three main types of headaches are tension, migraine, and cluster headaches. Each of the headaches has its causes and different symptoms. Many headaches may often disappear with Panadol. However, if your headache is persistent, you should visit a doctor.
- Toothache
Panadol can also be used to relieve toothache. However, it may not be as effective as other medications that are used to relieve toothache as Panadol does not reduce swelling and therefore provide less pain relief.
- Menstrual pain
Dysmenorrhea is a medical term used for pain that is caused by menstruation. It is a common pain that is experienced by females. It begins during early teens and may persist throughout the childbearing years. The severity of pain may vary with individuals. Panadol may help to relieve the pain associated with menstruation.
Panadol can also be used to relieve the following conditions
- Backache
- Osteoarthritis
- Arthritis
- Muscle pain
How many tablets of Panadol can I take and how often should I take them?
You should always follow the instructions on the packaging of Panadol. The instructions may vary with age and the product being used. It is very important to take Panadol as instructed by your healthcare professionals. If you have concerns regarding the dosage, ask your pharmacist or doctor for advice. You should not take Panadol for more than a few days at a time unless instructed by your doctor. It is harmful if you have prolonged use without medical supervision. If pain or symptoms that you are experiencing persist, you should seek medical advice from a healthcare professional.
What are the side effects of Panadol?
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Blurred vision
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Stomach pain, etc.
Taking Panadol at a high dose may result in serious liver damage. Symptoms of Panadol overdose may include nausea, vomiting, pain under the ribs on the right side, confusion, agitation. There may be yellowing of the eyes and skin. Call emergency services immediately if someone has overdosed or has serious symptoms like trouble breathing or fainting.
Always follow the instructions on the packaging when you take Panadol. Ask your pharmacist or doctor for advice on this medication.
