Indications

Aceta (Paracetamol/Acetaminophen) is indicated for treating fever, common cold, and various types of pain, including:

• Headache, toothache, and earache
• Body ache, myalgia, and neuralgia
• Dysmenorrhea (menstrual pain)
• Post-operative, postpartum, and post-vaccination pain
• Rheumatic, osteoarthritic, and inflammatory pain

Pharmacology

Paracetamol is a non-opioid analgesic and antipyretic. It works by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis in the central nervous system (CNS), which helps to block pain signals and reduce fever by acting on the hypothalamic heat-regulating center. It has a weak anti-inflammatory effect.

Dosage & Administration

Dosage varies by age and form. Do not exceed the maximum daily dose.

• Tablets:
  • Adults: 1-2 tablets every 4-6 hours, up to 4 gm (8 tablets) daily.
  • Children (6-12 years): ½ to 1 tablet 3-4 times daily.
• Extended Release Tablets:
  • Adults & Children over 12: Two tablets every 6-8 hours, up to 6 tablets in 24 hours. Must be swallowed whole.
• Syrup/Suspension:
  • Children (under 3 months): 10 mg/kg body weight 3-4 times daily.
  • Adults: 4-8 teaspoonfuls 3-4 times daily.
• Suppository:
  • Children (3-12 months): 60-120 mg 4 times daily.
  • Adults & children over 12: 0.5-1 gm 4 times daily.
• IV Infusion:
  • Adults (over 50 kg): 1000 mg every 6 hours or 650 mg every 4 hours, max 4000 mg/day.
  • Children (over 2 years): 15 mg/kg every 6 hours or 12.5 mg/kg every 4 hours, max 75 mg/kg/day.

Interaction

• Alcohol: Can increase the risk of liver toxicity, especially in overdose.
• Anticonvulsants (e.g., Carbamazepine), Barbiturates, and Tricyclic Antidepressants: May affect how the body metabolizes Paracetamol.

Contraindications

Do not use if you have a known hypersensitivity to Paracetamol.

Side Effects

Side effects are usually mild. Rarely, they may include blood disorders (thrombocytopenia, agranulocytosis), pancreatitis, and skin rashes.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Paracetamol is generally considered safe during pregnancy when used at recommended doses. It is excreted in breast milk in small, clinically insignificant amounts.

Precautions & Warnings

• Liver & Kidney: Use with caution in patients with severe liver or kidney impairment, or a history of alcoholism.
• Overdose: Do not exceed the recommended dose. Overdose can cause severe liver damage, which may be fatal. Symptoms often appear 12 to 48 hours after ingestion and include nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
• Hypersensitivity: Discontinue immediately if you experience any signs of an allergic reaction.

Overdose Effects

Overdose can lead to severe liver damage and death. Symptoms may include pallor, nausea, and abdominal pain. Immediate medical attention is essential. Treatment with N-acetylcysteine is most effective if administered within 8 hours of ingestion.

Therapeutic Class

Aceta is a Non-Opioid Analgesic.

Storage Conditions

Store in a dry place away from light and heat, and out of the reach of children.