Maximum Dose of Paracetamol with its Usage Rules
YOGYAKARTA - Paracetamol (acetaminophen) is often the first choice to treat fever and mild pain, both in adults and children. So, what is the maximum dose of paracetamol?
Paracetamol belongs to the group of over-the-counter drugs (green label). This means that this drug can be purchased at pharmacies without a doctor's prescription.
Paracetamol is thought to work directly on the temperature and pain regulation centers in the brain. With this mechanism of action, paracetamol can reduce fever or relieve pain from mild physical trauma.
Paracetamol is also a drug with minimal side effects, making it the first-line therapy for treating fever and pain.
In pharmacies, hospitals, and other health facilities, paracetamol is available in the form of tablets, syrup, drops, infusions, and suppositories. Some paracetamol preparations are combined with other drugs such as decongestants, antitussives, expectorants, caffeine, and propyphenazone.
Maximum Dose of ParacetamolThe dose of paracetamol can be different in each patient. Therefore, always follow the doctor's advice or the instructions for use listed on the packaging label. The following information is only an average dose. If the dose you receive is different, do not change it without the doctor's approval.
The amount of medication consumed is influenced by the strength of the drug. In addition, the frequency of use in a day, the time interval between doses, and the length of time the drug is used are also adjusted to the medical condition being treated.
Quoted from the Mayo Clinic, the following is complete information regarding the maximum dose of paracetamol to treat pain and fever with the form of preparation (tablets, syrup, drops, suppositories, and suspension).
Adults and adolescents: 650-1,000 mg every 4-6 hours as needed (not more than 4,000 mg per day). The dose is adjusted according to the form and strength of the drug. Pay attention to the maximum daily dose limit stated on the label. Children: The dose is determined based on age or body weight. Be sure to follow the instructions on the label regarding the maximum daily dose. Age 11-12 years: 320-480 mg every 4-6 hours. Age 9-11 years: 320-400 mg every 4-6 hours. Age 6-9 years: 320 mg every 4-6 hours. Age 4-6 years: 240 mg every 4-6 hours. Age 2-4 years: 160 mg every 4-6 hours. Infants aged 6-23 months: 120 mg every 4 hours Infants aged 3-5 months: 60 mg every 4 hoursFor paracetamol infusion, this type of preparation is only given to patients who cannot take the medicine directly. The dose of paracetamol infusion will be determined by the doctor based on the patient's age, weight, and condition.
How to Use Paracetamol CorrectlyAs mentioned above, paracetamol can be purchased at pharmacies without a prescription from a doctor. Even so, the use of oral paracetamol, whether in the form of tablets, syrup, or drops, must follow the usage rules on the packaging or according to the doctor's advice. Avoid taking paracetamol in excess of the prescribed dose.
In order for the benefits of treatment to be optimal, pay attention to the correct use of paracetamol as follows:
Paracetamol can be taken before or after a meal. Paracetamol should be taken with a glass of water. For paracetamol in the form of syrup or drops, shake the bottle first before using it. Use the measuring device or pipette provided in the package to get the right dose. Avoid using a spoon or teaspoon because it can cause inaccurate doses. Paracetamol is not recommended for long-term use. Stop taking paracetamol if the complaint has improved. Immediately consult a doctor if the fever does not go down after 3 days of use or if the pain has not decreased after 7 days of use. In children, immediately consult a doctor if the fever has not subsided after 3 days of giving paracetamol, or when the pain has not improved after 5 days of use. After use, store paracetamol at room temperature. Avoid storing paracetamol in a place exposed to direct sunlight. Place paracetamol in a place that children cannot reach. Paracetamol in the form of infusion is only given by a doctor or medical personnel through a vein. Use clothing with easy-to-roll sleeves to facilitate the installation of the infusion.This is information about the maximum dose of paracetamol. Read VOI.id to get updates on other selected news.