FDA Seized of Paracetamol Overdosing

To avoid Liver damages due to excessive dosage, do not take more than 4g (8 tablets of 500 mg) per day of Paracetamol, a very common fever and pain medicine under any circumstances

CJ: Vyasamoorthy

Mon, Jun 01, 2009 10:28:36 IST

Views:
126
Comments:
0

Rate:

0.0 / 0 votes

Health News India :

PARACETAMOL, ALSO known as Acetaminophen, is a very common fever and pain medicine sold across the counter. In India some of the popular brand names for this drug are: Calpol, Crocin, Doliprane, Dolopar, Malidens, Pacimol, Paracin, Parazine, Pyrexon. People pop in a tablet or two whenever they have any pain be it headache or body ache due to any origin, whether or not it is accompanied with fever. For treatments, about 4gms ( 8 tablets of 500 mg) of Paracetamol is all that one can use per day safely. My understanding is that in India we do not take more than three or four Crocin tablets per day. But in the USA popping pills without discrimination is high. So much so a large number of people complain of liver problems arising out of Paracetamol overdose. Now FDA (USA) is thinking of issuing special advisories to prevent on Paracetamol overdosing.

One should be careful not to exceed the prescribed dosages. If you are alcoholic or are already suffering from any liver problem you should consult your doctor before using Crocin. Many prescription medicines combine combinations, one of which could be Paracetamol. When you take Paracetamol you need to check if the same drug is in some other medicines also so that the total quantity does not exceed safe limits.

Overdose of Paracetamol does not show any visible symptoms immediately. On the second day one might notice vomiting and nausea. If liver gets affected, confusion and jaundice may occur. If death occurs it is due to severe liver damage. Nearly 130 people die in England Wales due to Paracetamol overdosing.

Some precautionary measures suggested are:

Sell this drug only in strips that are safe for daily consumption. Say 8 tablets of 500mg per strip
Mention “Paracetamol” clearly in labels in addition to brand names
Do not sell in bulk (Bottles of 500 tablets) to individuals; they may be reserved for hospitals

I think the best way to prevent any overdose is to be very conservative in popping pills.

E-mail |

Print | Post comment