Additives in paracetamol

[tabbyjade]

I am asthmatic and take paracetamol for arthritis. I’ve just realised that supermarket own brands have sulphites in and Panadol has benzoates, neither of which are good for asthmatics. Does anyone know if paracetamol is sold anywhere without additives? Thanks.

[EmmaF91 Community Ambassador]

Not everyone has issues with either. If you’ve had it before and not had asthma issues from it then try not to worry too much. If you do have issues when you take it then you should stop using it. If your asthma has been well controlled since starting the paracetamol for your arthritis then I wouldn’t worry too much about it. Hope this helps

[tabbyjade in reply to EmmaF91]

Thank you

[Poobah]

Looking at the ingredients on the patient leaflet, it appears that Boots Paracetamol 500mg capsules are free of sulphites and benzoates. However, they do contain a sulfate. The other ingredients are: maize starch, croscarmellose sodium, sodium laurilsulfate and

magnesium stearate. The capsule shell is made of gelatin and contains the colours titanium dioxide (E171), indigo carmine (E132) and erythrosine (E127).boots.com/boots-pharmaceuti...

Your pharmacist should be able to source sulphite & benzoate free Paracetamol for you.

[tabbyjade in reply to Poobah]

Thank you. I have to wonder why so many extra chemicals have to be included in capsules when only the paracetamol is required. I avoid sodium laurel sulphate in toiletries as it is an allergen. I certainly wouldn’t imbibe it!! Thank you for alerting me to avoid these capsules 😂

[Poobah in reply to tabbyjade]

I think that they enable the product to form as a solid and increase its shelf life. But a good pharmacist will source the right meds for you if you have to avoid additives.

[teddyd]

Have you had problems taking paracetamol? Have they made your asthma worse. I have never looked at the ingredients but my asthma does not seem to be affected by taking then .

[tabbyjade in reply to teddyd]

Yes. I often take paracetamol as I go to bed to help me settle and I find I am thinking whether I need my inhaler. My breathing usually settles after a while though. I can’t be sure that is due to the sulphite but I am affected by sulphites in food.

[teddyd in reply to tabbyjade]

👍

[persil]

Hi yes I'm the same have to have pure 500mg paracetamol so I get mine from either chemist and I ask them to order for me or the pound shop and savers but always check the label before purchasing xx

[tabbyjade in reply to persil]

Thank you, that is very helpful.