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Paracetamol Usage Guidelines

Paracetamol is used to relieve pain and reduce fever.

Paracetamol can be used to treat many conditons such as headache, muscle aches, arthritis, backache, toothaches, colds and fevers.

It is known to relieve pain in mild arthritus but does not have any effect in reducing swelling of joints.

 

What are safe dosages of Paracetamol  

 

Adult Paracetamol Dosages

An overdose of paracetamol can cause serious harm including fatality, do not exceed the recommended doses.

Be aware that paracetamol is present in many medicines including common cold remedies such as Lempsip.

The recommended maximun dosage for adults is 1g (1000mg) per dose up to 4 times a day. The total daily dose should not exceed 4g (4000mg)

Exceeding the recommended dosage can cause serious liver damage.

If more than 2 units of alcoholic drinks are taken a daily maximum dosage of 2g (2000mg) is recommended.

Always use paracetamol as stated on the product information leaflet or as stated by your doctor.

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Infant & Children Dosages

Infant paracetamol suspension (120 mg/5mL)

There are four separate age bands of 3‐6 months, 6‐24 months, 2‐4 years and 4‐6 years with one dose recommended for each age band as follows:

Child’s Age How Much How often (in 24 hours)

3 – 6 months: 2.5 mL 4 times in 24 hours

6 – 24 months: 5 mL 4 times in 24 hours

2 – 4 years: 7.5 mL 4 times in 24 hours

4 – 6 years: 10 mL 4 times in 24 hours  

Paracetamol six plus suspension (250 mg/5mL) 

For liquid paracetamol‐containing medicines for children aged over 6 years (250mg/5mL), the  following new age bands and doses apply: 

Child’s Age How Much How often (in 24 hours)

6 – 8 years: 5 mL 4 times in 24 hours 

8 – 10 years: 7.5 mL 4 times in 24 hours

10 – 12 years: 10 mL 4 times in 24 hours

We recommend to always consult your doctor or pharmacist if unsure about suitable paracetamol for you and your family. 

Reference Document Irish Medicine Board

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