About Paracetamol
Medically reviewed by Dr Khizer Hussain Junaidy, MD Pharmacology, Diabetologist & Bariatric Physician, on 23 Oct 2026.
What it is for
Relieves fever and mild to moderate pain such as headache, body ache and toothache.
How to take it
Take it after food or with water, usually every 6 to 8 hours as needed. Adults should not take more than 4 g in 24 hours. That is eight 500 mg tablets or six 650 mg tablets. Take less if you drink alcohol or have liver disease.
Common side effects
- Usually none at normal doses.
Call your doctor if
- Fever lasting more than 3 days.
- Yellow eyes, dark urine or pain in the upper right belly.
- Someone took more than the safe dose, even if they feel well. Go to a hospital the same day.
Take care
Many cold and pain tablets already contain paracetamol. Check the label so you do not take it twice.
From our clinic: For children, the dose depends on body weight. Ask us to work it out from the child's weight.