1. About paracetamol for adults
Paracetamol is a common painkiller used to treat aches and pain. It can also be used to reduce a high temperature.
It's available combined with other painkillers and anti-sickness medicines. It's also an ingredient in a wide range of cold and flu remedies.
For under-16s, read our information on paracetamol for children.
2. Key facts
Paracetamol takes up to an hour to work.
The usual dose of paracetamol is one or two 500mg tablets at a time.
Do not take paracetamol with other medicines containing paracetamol.
Paracetamol is safe to take in pregnancy and while breastfeeding, at recommended doses.
Brand names include Disprol, Hedex, Medinol and Panadol.
3. Who can and cannot take paracetamol
Most people can take paracetamol safely, including pregnant and breastfeeding women.
However, some people need to take extra care with paracetamol.
Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you:
have had an allergic reaction to paracetamol or any other medicines in the past
have liver or kidney problems
regularly drink more than the maximum recommended amount of alcohol (14 units a week)
take medicine for epilepsy
take medicine for tuberculosis (TB)
take the blood-thinner warfarin and you may need to take paracetamol on a regular basis
4. How and when to take it
Paracetamol can be taken with or without food.
The usual dose for adults is one or two 500mg tablets up to 4 times in 24 hours.
Always leave at least 4 hours between doses.
Overdosing on paracetamol can cause serious side effects. Do not be tempted to increase the dose or to take a double dose if your pain is very bad.
Different types of paracetamol
Paracetamol is widely available as tablets and capsules.
For people who find it difficult to swallow tablets or capsules, paracetamol is also available as a syrup or as soluble tablets that dissolve in water to make a drink.
5. What if I forget to take it?
If you take paracetamol regularly and miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, skip the missed dose if it's nearly time for your next dose.
Never take double doses of paracetamol. Do not take an extra dose to make up for a missed one.
If you forget doses often, it may help to set an alarm to remind you. You could also ask your pharmacist for advice on other ways to help you remember to take your medicine.