It is predominantly present in anti-sickness medicines and a range of drugs used for treatment for cold and flu. It has rare side effects and it is safe to take. It is effective to treat conditions such as cold, muscle ache, arthritis, toothache, and fever. (1)
Paracetamol is also known as acetaminophen, which is commonly termed as Tylenol. It is approved by FDA since 1951. The molecular weight is 151.16 g/mol.
Table of Contents
Various Forms of Paracetamol
- Syrup
- Regular tablets
- Effervescent tablets
- Injection
- Suppository
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Mechanism of Action
The antipyretic effect of paracetamol dose attributes interaction on the heat-regulating center of the brain located on the thermoregulation part of the hypothalamus. It triggers the peripheral vasodilation and sweating glands. (2)
It is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug as it inhibits cyclooxygenase pathways. Due to exert central action it alleviates symptoms of pain. It is a pronounced over-the-counter drug for treating pain.
It inhibits two isoforms COX-1 & COX-2 (cyclooxygenase)involved in prostaglandin synthesis. Prostaglandin elicits the pain sensation and inhibits cyclooxygenase in the peripheral layer of the tissues. Hence, it is prescribed for fever and chills treatment. (3)
Pharmacodynamics
As the chemical composition of this drug opposes the salicylate drug class, therefore, it disrupts the tubular secretion of the uric acid without affecting acid-base balance. It doesn’t disrupt homeostasis and also has no inhibitory activities on platelet aggregation. It is good for all sorts of aches. Paracetamol for toothache is also very effective.
Metabolism
Paracetamol metabolizes in the liver. It includes three pathway metabolism process:
- Conjugation with glucuronide
- Conjugation with sulphate
- Oxidation through cytochrome P450 enzyme pathway
However, high doses or regular intake of paracetamol for fever can damage the liver. Its route of elimination is urine.
Its half-life is 2.5 hours. After an overdose within 24 hours, 90% of the administered dosage gets excreted out. A consistent overdose can cause liver toxicity. (4)
Dosage Details
For adults, the maximum dose is 1gm per dose and 4 gm. per day. Those who are taking three or more alcoholic beverages a day must consult a doctor before taking paracetamol. (5)
Kids below 2 years of age must take paracetamol meant for paediatrics. Paracetamol in pregnancy or nursing conditions is safe to intake.
Over Dose & Toxicity
- Liver necrosis
- Carcinogenesis
- Mutagenesis
- Impairment in fertility
Adverse effects of overdose are stomach pain, nausea, weakness, vomiting, yellowing of urine.
Anzen Exports in Trading Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients
India exports more than 1,000 tonnes of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients of paracetamol. Anzen Exports is one of the leading companies exporting paracetamol and other active pharmaceutical ingredients across the world. Our range of products also includes nutraceutical and herbal extracts.
Our experience of 30 years in this industry supports us to procure the best quality product and deliver the same to our client. The quality of these products determines the therapeutic effect of the medicine. Hence, we are one of the most preferred suppliers of this industry. To know more, connect with us today.
Disclaimer:
Anzen Exports’ blog posts are based just on our research from cited websites. To be best informed, we advise consulting a doctor about an ingredient or medicine prior to taking it.
Sources:
- Drugs.com
Website – https://www.drugs.com/paracetamol.html - Healthline
Website – https://www.healthline.com/health/thermoregulation#:~:text=Your%20hypothalamus%20is%20a%20section,return%20your%20temperature%20to%20normal. - Drugbank
Website – https://go.drugbank.com/drugs/DB00316 - Nhs Inform
Website – https://www.nhsinform.scot/tests-and-treatments/medicines-and-medical-aids/types-of-medicine/paracetamol#:~:text=Paracetamol%20is%20a%20commonly%20used,such%20as%20colds%20and%20flu. - PubMed
Website – https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11319580/