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What is Paramol?
Let's talk about a medication that's been a trusted ally in the fight against pain for many people - Paramol. Paramol is an over-the-counter medication that is commonly used to alleviate moderate to severe pain. It's a go-to choice for many individuals when everyday painkillers like aspirin or ibuprofen just don't cut it. Whether you're dealing with a throbbing headache, aching muscles, or the discomfort of toothache, Paramol can provide the relief you need.
Active Ingredients in Paramol
Now, let's delve a bit deeper and look at what makes Paramol effective. The power of Paramol lies in its two active ingredients: paracetamol and dihydrocodeine. Paracetamol is a well-known painkiller that's used worldwide. It's effective in relieving mild to moderate pain and reducing fever. On the other hand, dihydrocodeine is a strong painkiller, belonging to a group of medicines known as opioids. It's used for more severe pain that can't be managed by other painkillers. The combination of these two ingredients in Paramol makes it a potent tool in managing pain.
How Paramol Works
So, how does Paramol work its magic? Well, the paracetamol in Paramol works by reducing the production of prostaglandins in the brain and spinal cord. Prostaglandins are substances released in response to illness or injury, and they can cause pain and fever. By reducing their production, paracetamol helps to alleviate these symptoms.
The other active ingredient, dihydrocodeine, works on pain receptors in the nervous system. It blocks the transmission of pain signals sent by the nerves to the brain, meaning that even though the cause of the pain may remain, less pain is actually felt.
That's the beauty of Paramol - it tackles pain from two different angles, making it a versatile and effective choice for pain relief.
Conditions Treated by Paramol
Paramol is a versatile medication that can be used to treat a variety of painful conditions. It's particularly effective for headaches, migraines, muscle and joint pain, period pain, and toothache. It's also a popular choice for people who find that standard painkillers like aspirin or ibuprofen aren't quite doing the trick. So, whether you've pulled a muscle during your morning workout or you're dealing with the discomfort of a toothache, Paramol could be the pain relief solution you need.
How to Take Paramol
Taking Paramol is pretty straightforward. The tablets should be swallowed whole with a glass of water. It's important not to crush or chew them. You can take Paramol with or without food, but if you find that the medication upsets your stomach, taking it with a meal or a snack could help. Remember, it's always important to follow the instructions provided with the medication or given by your healthcare provider.
Dosage Information
The dosage of Paramol will depend on the severity of your pain and your individual needs. However, a typical dosage for adults and children over 12 years old is one to two tablets every four to six hours. It's crucial not to take more than eight tablets in a 24-hour period. Remember, Paramol is a strong medication, and taking more than the recommended dose can lead to serious health problems.
What to Do in Case of Missed Dose or Overdose
If you forget to take a dose of Paramol, take it as soon as you remember, unless it's nearly time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Never take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
In case of an overdose, it's important to seek medical help immediately. Symptoms of an overdose can include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and abdominal pain. Overdosing on Paramol can be very dangerous because of the risk of severe liver damage.
Interaction with Other Medicines
Paramol can interact with certain other medications, which can affect how it works or increase the risk of side effects. Some of the medicines that can interact with Paramol include certain antidepressants, antihistamines, and medications used to treat epilepsy or tuberculosis. It's always important to tell your healthcare provider about any other medications you're taking before starting Paramol.
Remember, it's not safe to take Paramol with other medications that contain paracetamol, as this can increase the risk of a paracetamol overdose. Always check the ingredients of any other medications you're taking to ensure they don't contain paracetamol. NHS's guide on Co-dydramol, a similar medication to Paramol, provides more information on this topic.
Common Side Effects
Like all medications, Paramol can cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them. The most common side effects include constipation, nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, and headaches. These side effects are usually mild and tend to go away on their own as your body adjusts to the medication. However, if they persist or become bothersome, it's a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider.
Serious Side Effects
While rare, Paramol can cause serious side effects in some individuals. These can include skin rash, difficulty urinating, changes in vision, and dizziness. If you experience any of these side effects, it's important to seek medical attention immediately. In very rare cases, a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) can occur. Symptoms of anaphylaxis include difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, and severe skin rash. This is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention.
Precautions and Warnings
Before starting Paramol, it's important to inform your healthcare provider if you have any underlying health conditions or if you're taking any other medications. People with digestive problems, lung problems, head injuries, adrenal gland problems, seizure disorders, underactive thyroid, or liver or kidney problems should use Paramol with caution. Additionally, Paramol should not be used by individuals who regularly consume large amounts of alcohol.
Use During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
If you're pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, it's important to discuss the use of Paramol with your healthcare provider. While paracetamol is generally considered safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding, dihydrocodeine can have effects on the baby, especially if used during the later stages of pregnancy or for extended periods while breastfeeding. Always consult with your healthcare provider to weigh the benefits and risks.
Dealing with Side Effects
If you experience side effects from Paramol, there are ways to manage them. For constipation, increasing your intake of high-fiber foods and water can help. If you're feeling nauseous, taking Paramol with or after a meal can help. For drowsiness, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how Paramol affects you. If you're experiencing headaches, rest and hydration can help. Always remember, if side effects persist or become severe, it's important to seek medical attention. WebMD's detailed information on Paramol provides more in-depth knowledge on this topic.
Can I take Paramol with other painkillers?
It's generally not recommended to take Paramol with other painkillers that contain paracetamol, as this can increase the risk of a paracetamol overdose. If you're considering taking Paramol with other painkillers, it's best to consult with your healthcare provider first.
Is Paramol addictive?
Paramol contains dihydrocodeine, which can be addictive if used for long periods or at high doses. It's important to use Paramol as directed by your healthcare provider and not to exceed the recommended dose or duration of treatment.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Paramol?
Drinking alcohol while taking Paramol can increase the risk of side effects like drowsiness and dizziness. It can also increase the risk of liver damage from paracetamol. It's generally best to avoid alcohol while taking Paramol.
What should I do if I take too much Paramol?
If you've taken more Paramol than the recommended dose, it's important to seek medical help immediately, even if you feel well. Overdosing on Paramol can cause serious liver damage, and symptoms may not appear until 24 to 48 hours after taking the medication. NHS's guide on Co-dydramol, a similar medication to Paramol, provides more information on this topic.
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Written by Christian Jakobsson
