Valid Ghana · FDA Ghana

ESKADOL NYTE

PARACETAMOL BP/DIPHENHYDRAMINE HCL

FDA/SD.113-1027 TABLETS 500MG/25MG musculo-skeletal system INN generic

What it does

Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine that helps relieve allergy symptoms and promotes sleep.

Commonly used for: allergic reactions, hay fever (allergic rhinitis), insomnia, motion sickness

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Plain-language summary for general understanding - not medical advice. Always follow your pharmacist/doctor.

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Registration & product details

Registration no.
FDA/SD.113-1027
Registration date
2025-02-13
Expiry date
2030-08-01
Status
Valid
Active ingredient
PARACETAMOL BP/DIPHENHYDRAMINE HCL
Dosage form
TABLETS
Strength
500MG/25MG
Pack size
-
Therapeutic class
-
ATC class (WHO)
M01AE - Propionic acid derivatives
RxNorm RxCUI
3498
Manufacturer / MAH
Eskay Therapeutics
Country of origin
-
Manufacturer location
Accra, Ghana

Source: Food and Drugs Authority · fetched 2026-04-18 08:32:57 · updated 2026-09-15 04:00:11

Drug Interactions

8
Check interactions

Pharmacodynamic Warnings

Paracetamol appears in TABLE 1: Drugs that cause hepatotoxicity

Moderate (3)

Prilocaine - increases risk of methaemoglobinaemia

Paracetamol is predicted to increase the risk of methaemoglobinaemia when given with topical anaesthetics, local (prilocaine). Use with caution or avoid.

Moderate Theoretical

Topical Anaesthetics, Local - increases risk of methaemoglobinaemia

Paracetamol is predicted to increase the risk of methaemoglobinaemia when given with topical anaesthetics, local (prilocaine). Use with caution or avoid.

Moderate Theoretical

Topical Prilocaine - increases risk of methaemoglobinaemia

Paracetamolispredictedtoincreasetheriskof methaemoglobinaemiawhengivenwithtopicalprilocaine. Usewithcautionoravoid.rTheoretical 1xidneppA|snoitcaretnI A1 https://www.facebook.c (Books-Courses-Medic

Moderate Theoretical

Unknown (5)

Coumarins - increases anticoagulant effect

Paracetamol increases the anticoagulant effect of coumarins.

Unknown Study

Dapsone - increases risk of methaemoglobinaemia

Paracetamol is predicted to increase the risk of methaemoglobinaemia when given with dapsone.

Unknown Theoretical

Paracetamol - increases risk of hepatotoxicity

Imatinib increases the risk of hepatotoxicity when given with paracetamol.

Unknown Anecdotal

Paracetamol - decreases exposure

Pitolisantispredictedtodecreasetheexposureto paracetamol.nTheoretical

Unknown Theoretical

Paracetamol - decreases exposure

Rifampicin decreases the exposure to paracetamol.

Unknown Study

Data from BNF 85 (British National Formulary). This is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Matched via: exact

Disclaimer: This information is sourced from Food and Drugs Authority (Ghana). Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any medication.

About diphenhydramine

Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine that helps relieve allergy symptoms and promotes sleep.

What it treats

  • allergic reactions
  • hay fever (allergic rhinitis)
  • insomnia
  • motion sickness

How it works

It works by blocking histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms and can affect sleep.

Who it's for

It is suitable for adults and children over a certain age, but always check with a healthcare provider.

AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.

About paracetamol

Paracetamol is a common pain relief medication used to reduce fever and relieve mild to moderate pain.

What it treats

  • fever
  • headaches
  • muscle aches
  • joint pain
  • toothaches
  • menstrual cramps

How it works

Paracetamol works by blocking pain signals in the brain and helping to lower body temperature.

Who it's for

Paracetamol is suitable for most adults and children who need pain relief or fever reduction.

Cautions

  • • Use with caution if you are taking other drugs that may harm the liver.

AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.

Clinical monograph: diphenhydramine

BNF-referenced

Diphenhydramine is a first-generation antihistamine with sedative, anti-emetic, and antimuscarinic properties. It is commonly used to relieve symptoms of allergy, hay fever, and the common cold, such as runny nose, sneezing, and itchy or watery eyes. Additionally, it is utilized for its antiemetic effects in motion sickness and as a sleep aid due to its sedative properties. Its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier makes it effective in treating symptoms that involve the central nervous system.

Indications

  • Allergic rhinitis
  • Allergic conjunctivitis
  • Urticaria

Mechanism of action

Diphenhydramine primarily functions by antagonizing H1 (Histamine 1) receptors located in various tissues, including the respiratory system, gastrointestinal tract, and central nervous system. By acting as an inverse agonist at H1 receptors, it mitigates the effects of histamine, thereby reducing allergic symptoms. As a first-generation antihistamine, it also crosses the blood-brain barrier, leading to sedative effects. Furthermore, diphenhydramine exhibits antimuscarinic activity by competitively antagonizing muscarinic acetylcholine receptors, contributing to its use in treating parkinsonian symptoms.

Pharmacodynamics

Diphenhydramine possesses anti-histaminic, anti-emetic, anti-vertigo, and sedative properties. Its antihistaminic action blocks the effects of histamine by competing for H1 receptor sites, preventing symptoms associated with histamine release. Its anti-emetic effects are due to inhibition at the medullary chemoreceptor trigger zone, while its anti-vertigo action arises from a central antimuscarinic effect on the vestibular apparatus and the vomiting center in the midbrain.

Pharmacokinetics

Diphenhydramine is well-absorbed following oral administration and reaches peak plasma concentrations within 1 to 2 hours. It is metabolized in the liver and has a half-life of approximately 4 to 8 hours, although this can vary based on individual factors. The drug is excreted primarily in the urine, with a significant portion eliminated as metabolites rather than unchanged drug. Due to its lipophilic nature, diphenhydramine readily crosses the blood-brain barrier, contributing to its sedative effects.

Contra-indications

  • Severe asthma exacerbation
  • Hypersensitivity to diphenhydramine or any of its components
  • Newborns or premature infants

Adverse effects

  • Drowsiness
  • Dizziness
  • Dry mouth
  • Constipation
  • Urinary retention
  • Blurred vision
  • Confusion

Interactions

  • CNS depressants (e.g., alcohol, sedatives, tranquilizers) may enhance sedative effects
  • MAO inhibitors can prolong and intensify anticholinergic effects

Precautions

  • Use with caution in patients with glaucoma
  • Prostatic hypertrophy
  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Elderly patients may be more sensitive to side effects

Pregnancy

Diphenhydramine should only be used during pregnancy if clearly needed. Consult a healthcare provider for advice.

Breast-feeding

Diphenhydramine is excreted in breast milk. Use caution when administering to nursing mothers.

Storage

Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep out of reach of children.

Formulations

  • Tablets
  • Capsules
  • Liquid formulations
  • Topical preparations

AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.

Clinical monograph: Paracetamol

BNF-referenced

Paracetamol, also known as acetaminophen, is a widely used analgesic and antipyretic medication. It is effective in alleviating pain and reducing fever but does not possess anti-inflammatory properties. Paracetamol is often used for mild to moderate pain relief, including headaches, muscle aches, arthritis, backaches, toothaches, colds, and fevers. Its mechanism of action is primarily central, as it affects the brain's heat-regulating centers and increases pain thresholds.

Indications

  • Mild to moderate pain
  • Fever
  • Headaches
  • Muscle aches
  • Arthritis
  • Backaches
  • Toothaches
  • Colds

Dosage

Adults: For adults, the typical dosage is 500 mg to 1 g every 4 to 6 hours, with a maximum daily limit of 4 g. In cases of intravenous administration, the dosage is 15 mg/kg every

Mechanism of action

Paracetamol is thought to exert its analgesic effects by inhibiting cyclo-oxygenase (COX) enzymes, specifically COX-1 and COX-2, which are involved in the synthesis of prostaglandins responsible for pain sensation. Unlike most NSAIDs, paracetamol does not exhibit peripheral anti-inflammatory effects. Its antipyretic action is believed to result from direct action on heat-regulating centers in the brain, leading to peripheral vasodilation and sweating.

Pharmacodynamics

Paracetamol has been shown to have both antipyretic and analgesic effects, lacking any significant anti-inflammatory activity. It does not interfere with platelet aggregation or disrupt hemostasis, making it a safer option for individuals at risk of bleeding. Allergic reactions to paracetamol are rare. The drug does not affect uric acid secretion or acid-base balance when used at recommended doses.

Pharmacokinetics

Paracetamol is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, with peak plasma concentrations typically occurring within 30 to 60 minutes after oral administration. It is primarily metabolized in the liver via conjugation with glucuronide and sulfate, with a minor pathway involving cytochrome P450 enzymes. The elimination half-life ranges from 1 to 4 hours, with renal excretion of metabolites as the primary route of elimination.

Adverse effects

  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Liver injury
  • Renal damage
  • Hypersensitivity reactions
  • Flushing
  • Hypotension
  • Anorectal erythema
  • Angioedema
  • Agranulocytosis
  • Thrombocytopenia
  • Leukopenia
  • Severe cutaneous adverse reactions (SCARs)

Interactions

  • Increased risk of methaemoglobinaemia with topical prilocaine
  • Increased risk of methaemoglobinaemia with topical anaesthetics
  • Increased anticoagulant effect with coumarins
  • Increased risk of hepatotoxicity with imatinib
  • Decreased exposure with rifampicin
  • Decreased exposure with pitolisant

Precautions

  • Monitor patients with liver disease or heavy alcohol use for increased risk of hepatotoxicity
  • Adjust doses in patients taking enzyme-inducing antiepileptic medications
  • Use caution in patients with renal impairment
  • Clinical judgement is required for dose adjustment in weight-based dosing

Pregnancy

Paracetamol is generally considered safe to use during pregnancy for pain and fever relief, but should be used at the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary.

Breast-feeding

Paracetamol is excreted in breast milk in small amounts and is considered safe for use while breastfeeding.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.

Formulations

  • Oral tablets (500 mg)
  • Oral suspension (120 mg/5 mL, 500 mg/5 mL)
  • Rectal suppositories (various strengths)
  • Intravenous infusion (various strengths)
BNF 85 (British National Formulary) p.503 BNF for Children 2019-2020 p.300 PubChem / pathway

AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.

Molecular reference: diphenhydramine

PubChem CID 3100

Molecular formula: C17H21NO

Mechanism of action

Diphenhydramine predominantly works via the antagonism of H1 (Histamine 1) receptors. Such H1 receptors are located on respiratory smooth muscles, vascular endothelial cells, the gastrointestinal tract (GIT), cardiac tissue, immune cells, the uterus, and the central nervous system (CNS) neurons. When the H1 receptor is stimulated in these tissues it produces a variety of actions including increased vascular permeability, promotion of vasodilation causing flushing, decreased atrioventricular (AV) node conduction time, stimulation of sensory nerves of airways producing coughing, smooth muscle contraction of bronchi and the GIT, and eosinophilic chemotaxis that promotes the allergic immune response. Ultimately, diphenhydramine functions as an inverse agonist at H1 receptors, and subsequently reverses effects of histamine on capillaries, reducing allergic reaction symptoms. Moreover, since diphenhydramine is a first-generation antihistamine, it readily crosses the blood-brain barrier and inversely agonizes the H1 CNS receptors, resulting in drowsiness, and suppressing the medullary cough center. Furthermore, H1 receptors are similar to muscarinic receptors. Consequently, diphenhydramine also acts as an antimuscarinic. It does so by behaving as a competitive antagonist of muscarinic acetylcholine receptors, resulting in its use as an antiparkinson medication. Lastly, diphenhydramine has also demonstrated activity as an intracellular sodium channel blocker, resulting in possible local anesthetic properties. Antihistamines used in the treatment of allergy act by competing with histamine for H1-receptor sites on effector cells. They thereby prevent, but do not reverse, responses mediated by histamine alone. Antihistamines antagonize, in varying degrees, most of the pharmacological effects of histamine, including urticaria and pruritus. Also, the anticholinergic actions of most antihistamines provide a drying effect on the nasal mucosa. /Antihistamines/ H1 antagonists inhibit both the vasoconstrictor effects of histamine and, to a degree, the more rapid vasodilator effects mediated by activation of H1 receptors on endothelial cells (synthesis/release of NO and other mediators). /H1 Receptor Antagonists/ H1 antagonists suppress the action of histamine on nerve endings, including the flare component of the triple response and the itching caused by intradermal injection. /H1 Receptor Antagonists/ The first-generation antihistamines are widely prescribed medications that relieve allergic reactions and urticaria by blocking the peripheral histamine H(1) receptor. Overdose of these drugs often results in serious neuronal toxic effects, including seizures, convulsions and worsening of epileptic symptoms. The KCNQ/M K(+) channel plays a crucial role in controlling neuron excitability. Here, we demonstrate that mepyramine and diphenhydramine, two structurally related first-generation antihistamines, can act as potent KCNQ/M channel blockers. Extracellular application of these drugs quickly and reversibly reduced KCNQ2/Q3 currents heterologously expressed in HEK293 cells. The current inhibition was concentration and voltage dependent. The estimated IC(50) (12.5 and 48.1 microM, respectively) is within the range of drug concentrations detected in poisoned patients (30-300 microM). Both drugs shifted the I-V curve of KCNQ2/Q3 channel to more depolarized potentials and altered channel gating properties by prolonging activation and shortening deactivation kinetics. Mepyramine also inhibited the individual homomeric KCNQ1-4 and heteromeric KCNQ3/Q5 currents. Moreover, mepyramine inhibited KCNQ2/Q3 current in an outside-out patch excised from HEK293 cells and the inhibitory effect was neither observed when it was applied intracellularly nor affected by blocking phospholipase C (PLC) activity, indicating an extracellular and direct channel blocking mechanism. Finally, in cultured rat superior cervical ganglion (SCG) neurons, mepyramine reduced the

Pharmacodynamics

Diphenhydramine has anti-histaminic (H1-receptor), anti-emetic, anti-vertigo and sedative and hypnotic properties. The anti-histamine action occurs by blocking the spasmogenic and congestive effects of histamine by competing with histamine for H1 receptor sites on effector cells, preventing but not reversing responses mediated by histamine alone. Such receptor sites may be found in the gut, uterus, large blood vessels, bronchial muscles, and elsewhere. Anti-emetic action is by inhibition at the medullary chemoreceptor trigger zone. Anti-vertigo action is by a central antimuscarinic effect on the vestibular apparatus and the integrative vomiting center and medullary chemoreceptor trigger zone of the midbrain.

Source: PubChem (NCBI) · pathways from PathBank, Reactome, WikiPathways & PharmGKB.

Molecular reference: Paracetamol

PubChem CID 1983

Molecular formula: C8H9NO2

Mechanism of action

According to its FDA labeling, acetaminophen's exact mechanism of action has not been fully established - despite this, it is often categorized alongside NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) due to its ability to inhibit the cyclo-oxygenase (COX) pathways. It is thought to exert central actions which ultimately lead to the alleviation of pain symptoms. One theory is that acetaminophen increases the pain threshold by inhibiting two isoforms of cyclo-oxygenase, COX-1 and COX-2, which are involved in prostaglandin (PG) synthesis. Prostaglandins are responsible for eliciting pain sensations. Acetaminophen does not inhibit cyclooxygenase in peripheral tissues and, therefore, has no peripheral anti-inflammatory effects. Though acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) is an irreversible inhibitor of COX and directly blocks the active site of this enzyme, studies have shown that acetaminophen (paracetamol) blocks COX indirectly. Studies also suggest that acetaminophen selectively blocks a variant type of the COX enzyme that is unique from the known variants COX-1 and COX-2. This enzyme has been referred to as _COX-3_. The antipyretic actions of acetaminophen are likely attributed to direct action on heat-regulating centers in the brain, resulting in peripheral vasodilation, sweating, and loss of body heat. The exact mechanism of action of this drug is not fully understood at this time, but future research may contribute to deeper knowledge. Although further investigation is warranted, the active metabolite of acetaminophen (AM404) was shown to interact with several molecular targets, including the Ca<sub>v</sub>3.2 calcium channel, the cannabinoid CB1 receptors, TRPV1 receptors, and Na<sub>v</sub>1.8 and Na<sub>v</sub>1.7 channels. Acetaminophen produces analgesia and antipyresis by a mechanism similar to that of salicylates. Unlike salicylates, however, acetaminophen does not have uricosuric activity. There is some evidence that acetaminophen has weak anti-inflammatory activity in some nonrheumatoid conditions (e.g., in patients who have had oral surgery). ... Acetaminophen lowers body temperature in patients with fever but rarely lowers normal body temperature. The drug acts on the hypothalamus to produce antipyresis; heat dissipation is increased as a result of vasodilation and increased peripheral blood flow. The effects of acetaminophen on cyclooxygenase activity have not been fully determined. Acetaminophen is a weak, reversible, isoform-nonspecific cyclooxygenase inhibitor at dosages of 1 g daily. The inhibitory effect of acetaminophen on cyclooxygenase-1 is limited, and the drug does not inhibit platelet function. Therapeutic doses of acetaminophen appear to have little effect on cardiovascular and respiratory systems; however, toxic doses may cause circulatory failure and rapid, shallow breathing. Acetaminophen (N-acetyl-p-aminophenol (APAP)) is the most common antipyretic/analgesic medicine worldwide. If APAP is overdosed, its metabolite, N-acetyl-p-benzo-quinoneimine (NAPQI), causes liver damage. However, epidemiological evidence has associated previous use of therapeutic APAP doses with the risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma. The transient receptor potential ankyrin-1 (TRPA1) channel is expressed by peptidergic primary sensory neurons. Because NAPQI, like other TRPA1 activators, is an electrophilic molecule, /the researchers/ hypothesized that APAP, via NAPQI, stimulates TRPA1, thus causing airway neurogenic inflammation. NAPQI selectively excites human recombinant and native (neuroblastoma cells) TRPA1. TRPA1 activation by NAPQI releases proinflammatory neuropeptides (substance P and calcitonin gene-related peptide) from sensory nerve terminals in rodent airways, thereby causing neurogenic edema and neutrophilia. Single or repeated administration of therapeutic (15-60 mg/kg) APAP doses to mice produces detectable levels of NAPQI in the lung, and increases neutrophil numbers, myeloperoxidase

Pharmacodynamics

Animal and clinical studies have determined that acetaminophen has both antipyretic and analgesic effects. This drug has been shown to lack anti-inflammatory effects. As opposed to the _salicylate_ drug class, acetaminophen does not disrupt tubular secretion of uric acid and does not affect acid-base balance if taken at the recommended doses. Acetaminophen does not disrupt hemostasis and does not have inhibitory activities against platelet aggregation. Allergic reactions are rare occurrences following acetaminophen use.

Source: PubChem (NCBI) · pathways from PathBank, Reactome, WikiPathways & PharmGKB.

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