Paracetamol - how it works, where it is and isn't effective and what reactions and side effects to expect

[AussieNeil]

Developed in 1877, Paracetamol (Panadol, Panamax, Dymadom, etc) is a commonly used analgesic (pain relief) and antipyretic (reduced fever).  'Paracetamol is generally well tolerated at recommended doses (adjusted for body weight in children), but can be lethal in overdose, leading to liver failure and death. Paracetamol can have an effect on liver function, but this is reversible and not associated with harmful outcomes.'

Andrew McLachlan, Professor of Pharmacy (Aged Care), University of Sydney explains more: theconversation.com/weekly-...

Neil

[Psmithuk]

This is very helpful, as Paracetamol has been in the news recently thank you!

[mocat]

Interesting, but has anyone else experienced a reaction to paracetamol like my husband?  Whenever he takes paracetamol, usually if he has a raised temperature, within 20 - 30 minutes of taking it,  he sweats profusely, wringing wet sweats, every bit as badly  as he did when he used to have night sweats before diagnosis.  We asked his haematologist about it and he said it was nothing to do with the paracetamol - sorry but we think differently, it happens every time, too much of a coincidence.  Needless to say he is reluctant to take it but it does reduce the temperature so needs must on occasions.

[fussybritches in reply to mocat]

My husband tends to get extremely hot / temperature rises after taking paracetamol for pain relief. Didn't associate it with CLL until reading this.