GACET 500
Paracetmol Effervescent Granules
What it does
Paracetamol is a common pain reliever and fever reducer.
Commonly used for: pain relief (analgesia), fever reduction (antipyretic)
Read more in plain English ↓Plain-language summary for general understanding - not medical advice. Always follow your pharmacist/doctor.
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Sourcing - Kenya onlyRegistration & product details
Source: Rwanda Food and Drugs Authority · fetched 2026-03-11 22:07:03 · updated 2026-09-21 02:30:19
About this medicine
Paracetamol is a common pain reliever and fever reducer.
What it treats
- pain relief (analgesia)
- fever reduction (antipyretic)
How it works
Paracetamol works by blocking pain signals in the brain and reducing fever.
Who it's for
It is suitable for adults and children who need relief from mild to moderate pain or fever.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: paracetmol
Paracetamol, also known as acetaminophen, is a widely used analgesic and antipyretic medication. It is commonly employed in the management of mild to moderate pain and to reduce fever. Paracetamol is favored for its safety profile and is often the first-line treatment for many conditions due to its low incidence of side effects compared to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Indications
- Mild to moderate pain relief
- Fever reduction
- Headaches
- Muscle aches
- Arthritis pain
- Back pain
- Toothaches
- Cold and flu symptoms
Dosage
Children: Refer to specific dosing guidelines in professional texts as per individual patient needs and clinical context.
Adults: Refer to specific dosing guidelines in professional texts as per individual patient needs and clinical context.
Mechanism of action
Paracetamol's exact mechanism of action is not fully understood. However, it is believed to inhibit the cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, particularly COX-2, in the brain. This action leads to a decrease in the synthesis of prostaglandins, which are mediators of pain and fever. Additionally, paracetamol may enhance the effects of endogenous cannabinoid system and influence serotonergic pathways, contributing to its analgesic effects.
Pharmacodynamics
Paracetamol exhibits analgesic properties by elevating the pain threshold through its action on the central nervous system. It has antipyretic effects by acting on the hypothalamic heat-regulating center, leading to peripheral vasodilation and increased sweating, which helps lower body temperature. Unlike NSAIDs, paracetamol has minimal anti-inflammatory effects.
Pharmacokinetics
Paracetamol is rapidly and almost completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, with peak plasma concentrations occurring within 30 to 60 minutes after oral administration. It is metabolized primarily in the liver through conjugation with glucuronic acid and sulfate. A small fraction is metabolized via the cytochrome P450 pathway to a reactive metabolite that can lead to hepatotoxicity in overdose situations. The elimination half-life is typically 1 to 4 hours, and it is excreted mainly as non-toxic metabolites in urine.
Contra-indications
- Severe hepatic impairment
- Active liver disease
- Hypersensitivity to paracetamol or any excipients
Adverse effects
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Rash
- Allergic reactions
- Hepatotoxicity
- Renal impairment
Interactions
- Alcohol may increase the risk of hepatotoxicity
- Warfarin may have increased anticoagulant effects with chronic use of paracetamol
- Rifampicin may increase the metabolism of paracetamol, reducing its effectiveness
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with liver disease
- Caution in patients with renal impairment
- Avoid exceeding the recommended dose to prevent hepatotoxicity
- Monitor liver function in long-term use
Pregnancy
Paracetamol is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy when taken at recommended doses.
Breast-feeding
Paracetamol is excreted in breast milk in small amounts, generally considered safe for use while breastfeeding.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.
Formulations
- Tablets
- Oral suspension
- Effervescent tablets
- Suppositories
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.