Common Paracetamol Side Effects

Paracetamol (acetaminophen) is generally well-tolerated when taken at the recommended dosage. Most people experience no side effects or only minor ones. However, like all medicines, it can cause side effects in some people.

Mild Side Effects

These are uncommon, but may include:

• Nausea (feeling sick) or occasionally vomiting. Taking paracetamol with or after food might help reduce nausea.
• Minor allergic reactions: Less commonly, some people might experience a skin rash, itching, or flushing. If you experience these symptoms, stop taking paracetamol and consult a doctor or pharmacist.
• Headache: While used to treat headaches, some individuals might report headache as a side effect, though this is rare.

Serious Side Effects

These are rare, but require immediate medical attention:

• Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis): Symptoms include swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat; difficulty breathing or swallowing; wheezing; severe skin rash, itching, or hives. Call emergency services immediately if you suspect anaphylaxis.
• Serious skin reactions: Very rarely, paracetamol can cause severe skin reactions like Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) or toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), which start with flu-like symptoms followed by a painful rash and blistering. Seek immediate medical help if you develop a rash with blistering, peeling, or sores.
• Liver problems: Taking too much paracetamol (overdose) is the main cause of serious liver damage. However, very rarely, liver issues can occur even at standard doses in susceptible individuals. Signs include yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes (jaundice), dark urine, pale stools, unusual tiredness, and pain in the upper right abdomen. Seek urgent medical attention if you notice these signs.
• Blood disorders: Extremely rarely, paracetamol can affect blood cell counts, leading to symptoms like unusual bruising or bleeding, persistent sore throat, frequent infections, or severe tiredness. Consult a doctor if you experience these.

Managing Side Effects

• For mild nausea, try taking your dose with a small amount of food or milk.
• If you experience mild side effects that are bothersome or don't go away, speak to your doctor or pharmacist.
• Stop taking paracetamol immediately if you suspect an allergic reaction or experience any serious side effects, and seek medical advice promptly.

When to Seek Medical Advice

Contact your doctor, pharmacist, or seek emergency care if:

• You suspect you have taken an overdose (even if you feel well).
• You experience symptoms of a serious allergic reaction or severe skin reaction.
• You develop signs of liver problems.
• You experience unusual bleeding, bruising, or frequent infections.
• Side effects are severe, persistent, or not listed in the product information leaflet.
• Your symptoms (pain or fever) do not improve after a few days of taking paracetamol as recommended.