That the active ingredient paracetamol does not affect the liver

For flu-like symptoms such as headache, sore throat, joint pain and fever, many people turn to medicines containing the active ingredient paracetamol. Paracetamol is also effective for Covid-19 symptoms or symptoms after vaccinations.

To ensure that the active ingredient paracetamol does not do more harm than good, strict adherence to the maximum daily dose is essential. Even if you have the feeling that the medication is not strong enough, do not increase the amount of tablets under any circumstances. An overdose of paracetamol can lead to liver failure. In the first one or two days after an overdose, you will usually not notice anything. The symptoms of liver damage only become apparent later on.

In case of an overdose

Contact a medical specialist or Tox Info Suisse. This is necessary even if you have no symptoms. The risk of liver damage can then be assessed. If the appropriate antidote is administered early, serious liver damage can usually be prevented.

The maximum daily dose for adults is 4 g.

i.e. a maximum of 8 x 500 mg or 4 x 1g within 24 hours. The individual doses should be taken 4 - 8 hours apart. The 500mg tablets are available without prescription. The double-dose 1000mg tablets (=1g) will be prescribed for you personally by your doctor. Do not give these tablets to other people. Other dosage recommendations apply for certain pre-existing conditions.

The maximum daily dose for children depends on their weight.

This is stated in the package insert of the respective paracetamol preparation. Observe the interval between the individual doses according to the package insert or the pediatrician's instructions.

Watch out: Paracetamol is found in many common flu or cold medications (combination preparations) and is available under many different drug names.

• Adhere to the maximum daily dose.
• Check whether your preparation contains 1g or 500mg paracetamol before taking it.
• If you feel that the medication is not working enough, do not take more tablets than the maximum daily dose! Contact your GP practice or pharmacy for an alternative.
• Simultaneous intake of other medication, especially flu or cold medication: Check whether the active ingredient paracetamol is also contained in other medications (must be included in the daily dose).
• The duration of treatment with paracetamol should be as short as possible. Use for more than 3 days should be discussed with your doctor.
• 1 g paracetamol tablets: Should not be used for any other purpose than originally prescribed by your doctor. These tablets should also not be given to other people.
• Read the package leaflet of all the medication you are taking and seek advice from a specialist.

• Follow the dosage instructions on the package insert.
• Make sure that you give the child "children's suppositories" and syrup for children and not preparations intended for adults.
• When using syrup for children: Check the kg body weight indication on the measuring spoon.
• Keeping a medication diary with details of the doses administered over time is a good idea (especially if several people are looking after the sick child).
• If you have the feeling that the effect is too weak (e.g. lack of fever reduction), consult your pediatrician for an alternative. Do not add more of the preparation under any circumstances.
• Most combination preparations must not be used for children. Before administration, check whether the preparation is really approved for your child's age category.
• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.

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renewed June 2023