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Paracetamol, the most commonly used antipyretic and analgesic, is safe only when used within the prescribed dose. An accidental overdose is dangerous and can lead to potential liver damage.
Problems about the safety of the drug, also called acetaminophen, have been highlighted by a US Food and Drug Administration committee which is also in favour of stricter ‘‘black box’’ warnings on labels of paracetamol combinations.
The panel has said that consumers should restrict use of the drug, and asked for lowering the maximum recommended dose from the existing 4 gm in a day.
Indian doctors say that the medicine if taken in the prescribed dose is the safest analgesic and fever-lowering medication, but in the West ‘paracetamol poisoning’ is happening with the drug being abused, sometimes even intentionally.
The drug is under review as numerous incidents of acetaminophen-related liver injury have been reported in US. The risk increases if there is a combination of paracetamol with codeine (found in cough and cold medications).
According to the spokesperson of GlaxoSmithKline “GSK continues to believe that paracetamol medicines are appropriate for OTC, prescription and combination use when taken as directed. As consumer safety is paramount, GSK supports any change that helps or educates our consumers on the safe, effective and appropriate use of medicine”.
GSK owns the two most popular brands of paracetamol — Crocin and Calpol, while others sold in the country include Pacimol, Metacin and Pyrigesic. Doctors say that paracetamol is the ‘‘safest pain killer’’ and liver damage is rarely seen, but should be used as directed.
According to Dr. Anupam Sibal, a senior consultant in pediatric gastroenterology, “Paracetamol is the safest anti-pyretic and medication for fever. But since it is available over the counter people should use it with caution. While administering to kids, you should not confuse drops with syrup, as drops are highly concentrated”.
