My use of Panadol started as far back as I can remember in childhood, where it was formulated into a "yummy" good tasting syrup. At times I recall when I was a little older, pretending to be ill and suggesting that I was given "the medicine" of which at the time I did not know the name, but parents knew it the only good tasting one I meant. Paracetamol syrup is still widely used currently for children in the treatment of minor illnesses such pain or lowering a fever. Also today as an adult I use Panadol as a first choice for pain relief of minor occasional headaches, menstrual cramps, only to mention a few.
Paracetamol is widely available on the market as an over the counter medication. It is available also in various formulations such as, tablets, capsules, suppositories, liquid suspension, intravenous and intramuscular form. the normal adult dosage is between 500mg to 1000mg, while the recommended daily adult dosage is 4000mg. Over dosage may lead to toxicity.
The advantage of using paracetamol is that it does not exhibit any adverse effects or side effects when used withing the correct dosage range and for a time period. An added benefit is that it does not lead to addiction as compared to other drugs used for pain relief. Paracetamol can also be safely used in pregnancy and during lactation. It also does not interact with alcohol and hence does not alter one's life-style.
Besides paracetamol having all the above stated benefits, it also has other side effects as the same applies to other drugs. Over-dosage of paracetamol leads to liver damage if untreated. However, full recovery is also possible after treatment.
I will be continuing to use Panadol for the rest of my life and continue to reap its benefits. It is an affordable and easy to come-by drug which is quite safe to use.
