Paracetamol (Acetaminophen): uses, dose & side effects
Written & medically reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS· Last reviewed
Paracetamol is one of the most widely used medicines for fever and mild-to-moderate pain. It is very safe at the right dose, but an overdose can seriously harm the liver — so the daily limit matters.
Typical dose — general reference only, NOT a prescription
Measure
Range
Category
Over-the-counter (OTC)
Adult dose
500–1000 mg every 4–6 hours; do not exceed 4 g (4000 mg) in 24 hours
Child (paediatric) dose
10–15 mg/kg per dose every 4–6 h (max 60 mg/kg/day); use syrup and dose by weight
What it is used for
Bringing down fever
Headache and body aches
Toothache and period pain
Cold and flu aches
A first-choice painkiller in pregnancy (confirm with your doctor)
Common brand names
India: Dolo, Crocin, Calpol, Pacimol, Paracip
Worldwide: Tylenol, Panadol, Mapap, Perfalgan
Common side effects
Very well tolerated at the correct dose
Rare skin rash or allergy
Liver damage only with overdose or in liver disease
Before taking it — precautions
Do not exceed the daily limit
Many cold/flu products already contain paracetamol — do not double up
Caution in liver disease and with regular alcohol
When to see a doctor urgently
An overdose is dangerous even before you feel unwell — get medical help immediately
Facial swelling or breathing difficulty (allergy)
Yellow eyes, dark urine or severe tummy pain (liver)
Doses are a general reference, not a prescription. Doses shown are typical adult/paediatric references and vary with age, weight, kidney/liver function and the exact product. Paediatric doses are usually weight-based and must be set by a doctor. MedDroid cannot prescribe — always confirm paracetamol and your dose with a doctor or pharmacist and the leaflet inside the pack.
Frequently asked questions
How much paracetamol is safe in a day?
For most adults the limit is 4 g (4000 mg) in 24 hours — for example up to 8 tablets of 500 mg. Never exceed it, and remember combination cold products may also contain paracetamol.
Is paracetamol safe in pregnancy?
It is generally the preferred painkiller in pregnancy at the lowest effective dose for the shortest time — but confirm with your doctor.
Paracetamol or ibuprofen?
Paracetamol is gentler on the stomach and good for fever and pain; ibuprofen also reduces inflammation. Ask a pharmacist which suits you.
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.