Paracetamol is another name for acetaminophen.
Specifically, the term paracetamol is used in European countries, Australia, India, and New Zealand.
While in the USA, Canada, and various other countries, it is called acetaminophen.
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Acetaminophen and paracetamol are categorized as bothnon-opioidanalgesics(pain relievers)andantipyreticagents (fever relievers).
However, there may be some differences between recommended doses and available strengths of the known brands.
Both are well-tolerated and safe, without adverse effects typically observed with aspirin.
Acetaminophen and paracetamol are available in various combinations under different brand names.
The following outlines basic information, both shared and specific, to each drug.
How They Work
As mentioned, acetaminophen and paracetamol are classified as non-opioid analgesic and antipyretic agents.
Within the scientific community, they are referred to as N-acetyl-p-aminophenol (APAP).
Non-opioid analgesics are a class of drugs used to manage and treat pain.
They includenonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antidepressants,anti-epileptics, andlocal anesthetics.
Themechanism of actionof these drugs is still unclear.
However, it generally works by changing how the body senses pain and cooling the body.
Acetaminophen and paracetamol are among the most popular and most commonly used analgesic and antipyretic drugs worldwide.
They are available without a prescription in mono- and multi-component preparations.
When used as directed, acetaminophen/paracetamol is very safe and effective.
How are Acetaminophen and Paracetamol Taken?
Acetaminophen and paracetamol are available under many brand names, each with its administration and dosing specifications.
Another commonly used brand is Panadol, which contains paracetamol and a combination of paracetamol and caffeine.
This branded product contains 500 mg of paracetamol and 65 mg of caffeine.
Take two tablets every four to six hours as needed.
In comparison, acetaminophen has a high oral bioavailability of 88%.
It absorbs well and reaches the peak blood concentrations within 90 minutes after ingestion.
Acetaminophen distributes widely throughout most body tissues except in fats.
It has a 1.5 to 2.5 hours plasma half-life at the recommended doses.
Side Effects
Acetaminophen and paracetamol are widely used and are safe when taken in recommended doses.
However, potential side effects/safety hazards associated with their use are listed below.
Acetaminophen and paracetamol are also linked to liver failure, sometimes leading to liver transplants or death.
The hepatotoxicity occurring with acetaminophen is caused due to high doses of acetaminophen that exceed the daily limit.
This may be a partial list of medicines that interact with acetaminophen or paracetamol.
Summary
Acetaminophen and paracetamol are among the most commonly used pain and fever management drugs.
Notably, acetaminophen and paracetamol are the same in chemical structure and pharmacological activity.
However, the two drugs may differ in brand names, strengths, combination products, and dosage forms.
Acetaminophen and paracetamol are first-choice analgesics for many adults with pain and are generally well tolerated at recommended doses.
Therefore, always use this medicine within recommended daily amounts to avoid adverse effects.
Acetaminophen and paracetamol come with an FDA-boxed warning regarding dosing errors and liver disease.
The liver disorders occurring with acetaminophen/paracetamol are caused due to high doses that exceed the daily limit.
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