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Paracetamol is one of the most widely used over-the-counter painkillers in the UK, a reliable option for everyday aches, pains, and fever that has been a household medicine cabinet staple for decades. Available as 500mg tablets and caplets, Paracetamol Tablets are commonly used to relieve headaches, joint pain and stiffness, toothache, sore throats, and the aches and fever that come with colds and flu.
This page provides general information about Paracetamol 500mg Tablets. Always read the patient information leaflet included with your product and consult a pharmacist or doctor if you have any questions about whether it is suitable for you.
At a glance:
- 500mg tablets and caplets for pain and fever relief
- Adult dose: 1–2 tablets every 4+ hours, max 8 in 24 hours
- Do not use for more than 3 days without medical advice
- Check with a pharmacist if you have liver or kidney conditions
- Generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Store below 25°C out of reach of children
What Paracetamol Is Used For
Paracetamol is commonly used to relieve:
- Headaches
- Joint pain, swelling, and stiffness
- Toothache
- Sore throat
- Fever and general aches associated with colds and flu
It works by reducing the production of certain chemicals in the body that cause pain and fever, providing relief without the anti-inflammatory action of medicines like ibuprofen.
How to Take 500mg Paracetamol Tablets
The following is general adult dosing guidance based on NHS information. Always check the packet or patient information leaflet for your specific product, as instructions can vary.
- One dose is 1 or 2 tablets (500mg or 1000mg)
- Leave at least 4 hours between doses
- Do not take more than 8 tablets (4000mg) in any 24-hour period
- Do not take Paracetamol for more than 3 days without speaking to a doctor
- Do not take other medicines that also contain paracetamol at the same time, including many cold and flu remedies, as this can lead to accidentally taking too much
If you weigh less than 50kg, a lower dose may be appropriate; check the packet or speak to a pharmacist.
Who Should Take Care of or Avoid Paracetamol
Most adults can take Paracetamol safely, but it may not be suitable if you:
- Have had an allergic reaction to paracetamol before
- Have a kidney or liver condition
- Are dependent on alcohol or drink heavily over short periods
Paracetamol is generally considered the safest painkiller option during pregnancy and breastfeeding, but you should always check with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.
Taking Paracetamol with other medicines:
Some medicines do not mix well with paracetamol, including other paracetamol-containing products (such as cold and flu remedies), certain anti-sickness medicines, blood-thinning medicines like warfarin, and some antibiotics. Always check the leaflet or speak to a pharmacist if you take other medication regularly.
Paracetamol can generally be taken alongside ibuprofen if needed, and normal food, drink and alcohol consumption does not need to be restricted while taking it, though it is always sensible to use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time needed.
Side Effects
Paracetamol very rarely causes side effects when taken correctly at the recommended dose. Serious side effects are rare but can include allergic reactions, liver problems, or issues affecting blood cells. If you experience any unusual symptoms after taking Paracetamol, stop taking it and seek advice from a pharmacist or doctor.
If you think you have taken too much Paracetamol, even if you feel fine, contact NHS 111 or your nearest pharmacy immediately, as an overdose can cause serious liver damage that may not show symptoms right away. In an emergency, call 999.
Paracetamol Tablets Details at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Active Ingredient | Paracetamol 500mg per tablet |
| Format | Tablets / Caplets |
| Typical Pack Size | 16 tablets |
| Common Use | Pain relief, fever reduction |
| Adult Dose | 1–2 tablets, every 4+ hours, max 8 in 24 hours |
| Maximum Duration Without Medical Advice | 3 days |
| Suitable For | Most adults (check packaging for suitability) |
| Storage | Store below 25°C, out of reach of children |
Other Essentials Worth Stocking Up On
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many paracetamol tablets can I take at once?
Adults can usually take 1 to 2 tablets (500mg each) as one dose; always check your specific product packaging.
How often can I take paracetamol?
Leave at least 4 hours between doses, and do not exceed 8 tablets (4000mg) in 24 hours.
Can I take paracetamol with ibuprofen?
Yes, adults can generally take both if needed, though it's best to try each on its own first.
Is paracetamol safe during pregnancy?
Paracetamol is generally considered the safest painkiller option during pregnancy, but always check with a healthcare professional.
What should I do if I've taken too much paracetamol?
Contact NHS 111 or a pharmacist immediately, even if you feel fine, as an overdose can cause delayed liver damage.
Can I take paracetamol for more than 3 days?
Not without speaking to a doctor first, ongoing pain lasting longer than 3 days should be assessed by a healthcare professional.
Does paracetamol interact with other medicines?
Yes, check before combining with other paracetamol-containing products, certain anti-sickness medicines, blood thinners like warfarin, or specific antibiotics.
Who should avoid taking paracetamol?
Those with a known allergy to paracetamol, certain liver or kidney conditions, or heavy alcohol dependence should check with a pharmacist first.
Note: This page provides general product and usage information sourced from NHS guidance and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always read the patient information leaflet supplied with your medicine.