Paracetamol

Paracetamol is a common painkiller. It treats mild to moderate pain and lowers a high temperature.

Type of medicine

Painkiller and fever reducer

Also known as

Calpol, Panadol, Co-codamol (with codeine)

Comes as

tablets, capsules, liquid, soluble tablets, suppositories, injection

How you get it

Some forms from shops and pharmacies without a prescription

What it is used for

Mild to moderate pain, such as headaches, toothache and period pain
High temperature (fever)
Pain after surgery (injection in hospital)

Read our guides:

Off-label uses

Doctors sometimes prescribe a medicine for a condition it is not officially licensed for. This is called off-label use. It is legal and common when there is good evidence it helps, and your doctor should explain why they are suggesting it.

Paracetamol is not commonly used off-label.

How it works

Nobody is completely sure how paracetamol works. It is thought to reduce the production of prostaglandins in the brain and spinal cord, which lowers pain and temperature.

Side effects

Like all medicines, Paracetamol can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Many are mild and ease after the first few weeks.

Common side effects

side effects are rare at the right dose

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if these bother you or do not go away.

Serious side effects

These are rare. Call 111 or contact your doctor straight away if you get:

a skin rash with blisters or peeling
yellowing of the skin or eyes
if you have taken too much, even if you feel well. Go to A and E straight away

Call 999 if you have signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of your lips, mouth, throat or tongue, or trouble breathing.

You can report any side effect to the Yellow Card scheme, run by the medicines regulator.

Stopping and withdrawal

Important safety information

Do not take more than 4g (usually 8 x 500mg tablets) in 24 hours, and leave at least 4 hours between doses.
Check other medicines, such as cold and flu remedies, do not also contain paracetamol.
People who weigh less than 50kg may need a lower dose.
An overdose can cause serious liver damage, even if you feel fine at first.

Questions about your medicine?

A pharmacist can answer questions about your medicines for free, without an appointment. You can also ask your GP for a medication review. Check if you can get free prescriptions.