Paracetamol 500mg 16

Paracetamol 500mg is an over-the-counter oral painkiller and fever reducer containing 500mg of paracetamol per tablet, used for the relief of mild to moderate pain and to bring down a high temperature, supplied in a pack of 16 by Ways Pharmacy (UK).

Key facts

Who it is for

• Adults and children aged 12 and over with everyday aches such as headache, toothache or period pain
• People who want a stomach-friendly painkiller and cannot take ibuprofen or aspirin
• People with a fever or the aches of a cold or flu
• People who want a basic pain reliever to keep in the medicine cabinet

Not suitable for: children under 12; anyone allergic to paracetamol; and anyone already taking another paracetamol-containing product. Speak to your pharmacist or doctor first if you have liver or kidney problems, drink alcohol regularly, weigh under 50kg, or are pregnant or breastfeeding.

How to use

1. Read the patient information leaflet inside the pack before you start.
2. Adults and children aged 12 and over: take 2 tablets with a drink of water.
3. Take a dose up to 4 times a day if needed, leaving at least 4 hours between doses.
4. Do not take more than 8 tablets in any 24-hour period.
5. If your pain or fever lasts more than 3 days, or gets worse, speak to your pharmacist or doctor.

Frequently asked questions

How many paracetamol 500mg tablets can I take a day?

Adults and children aged 12 and over can take 2 tablets up to 4 times a day, leaving at least 4 hours between doses. Do not take more than 8 tablets (4g of paracetamol) in 24 hours.

Can I take paracetamol with ibuprofen?

Yes. Paracetamol and ibuprofen work in different ways and can be taken together or alternated for stronger pain relief, as long as you stay within the maximum daily dose of each. They must not be confused with combination products that already contain both.

Is paracetamol safe in pregnancy?

Paracetamol is generally considered the first-choice painkiller during pregnancy and breastfeeding, taken at the lowest effective dose for the shortest time. If you need it for more than a day or two, check with your pharmacist, doctor or midwife.

What happens if I take too much paracetamol?

Taking more than the recommended dose can cause serious, delayed liver damage even if you feel well at first. If you take too much, seek immediate medical advice or go to A&E straight away, taking the pack with you.

Safety & storage

• Contains paracetamol. Do not take with any other paracetamol-containing products. Immediate medical advice should be sought in the event of an overdose, even if you feel well.
• Do not exceed 8 tablets in 24 hours and do not take a dose more often than every 4 hours.
• For oral use only.
• If your condition continues or worsens, consult a healthcare professional.
• Store below 25 degrees Celsius in a cool, dry place, and keep out of the sight and reach of children.

References

• NHS — Paracetamol for adults
• Paracetamol 500mg Tablets Patient Information Leaflet via emc

This page provides factual information about an over-the-counter medicine. Always read the patient information leaflet before use. If symptoms persist or you are unsure whether this product is right for you, speak to a pharmacist. Suspected side effects can be reported via the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme.