Here's a brief history of paracetamol 

  • In 1852, paracetamol was first synthesized by Charles Gerhardt.
  • In 1877, Harmon Northrop Morse synthesized paracetamol at Johns Hopkins University.
  • In 1886, acetanilide, an aniline derivative, was introduced into medical practice.
  • In 1887, clinical pharmacologist Joseph von Mering tried paracetamol on humans and published a paper in 1893 about the clinical results of paracetamol with phenacetin.
  • In 1947, David Lester and Leon Greenberg found strong evidence that paracetamol was a major metabolite of acetanilide.
  • In 1948, Bernard Brodie, Julius Axelrod, and Frederick Flinn confirmed that paracetamol was the major metabolite of acetanilide.
  • Paracetamol was first marketed in the United States in 1950 under the name Triagesic, a combination of paracetamol, aspirin, and caffeine but was removed from the market in 1951.
  • In 1952, paracetamol returned to the US market as a prescription drug.
  • In 1956, marketing of paracetamol began in the United Kingdom by Sterling-Winthrop Co. as Panadol.
  • In 1963, paracetamol was added to the British Pharmacopoeia.




Paracetamol (also known as acetaminophen) is commonly used to treat:


  1. Pain relief: Headaches, muscle aches, backaches, menstrual cramps, and toothaches.
  2. Fever reduction: Reduces fever and discomfort associated with colds, flu, and other illnesses.
  3. Minor arthritis pain: Relieves pain and stiffness in osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and fibromyalgia.
  4. Post-operative pain: Used to manage pain after surgery, childbirth, or dental procedures.
  5. Menstrual cramps: Relieves cramps, bloating, and discomfort associated with menstruation.
  6. Sore throats: Soothes sore throats and reduces fever.
  7. Migraines: Some people use paracetamol to treat migraine headaches, although its effectiveness for this purpose is debated.
  8. Covid-19 symptoms: Paracetamol has been used to manage mild to moderate COVID-19 symptoms, such as fever and body aches.
Remember to always follow the recommended dosage instructions and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any questions or concerns.

While paracetamol is commonly used and rarely has side effects.

  • Drowsiness and tiredness
  • Rashes and itching
  • Nausea, vomiting, constipation
  • Dizziness, lightheadedness
  • Anxiety
  • Abnormally happy or sad mood
  • Dry throat
  • Difficulty urinating
  • Rash, itching, and contraction of the pupils
  • Allergic reactions such as anaphylaxis
  • Breathing problems
  • Decrease in the number of blood cells
  • Liver failure
  • Kidney damage
  • Heart disease and stroke (if you have high blood pressure)
    Please note that paracetamol can cause serious damage to the liver and can be fatal if taken in large quantities.

Paracetamol Dosing:
The recommended dose of paracetamol varies based on age, weight and the medical condition being treated. Here are some general guidelines for paracetamol dosing ¹:
  • Adults and children 16 years and over: 1 to 2 Tablets (500mg-1000mg) every 4 to 6 hours.
  • 10 to 15 years: 1 Tablet (500mg) every 4 to 6 hours.
  • 6 to 9 years: 1 Tablet (250-500mg) every 4 to 6 hours.
  • 3-6 months: 2.5 ml (60-120mg) every 4 to 6 hours.
  • 2-3 months: 2.5ml (60mg) every 4 to 6 hours.
Do not take more than four doses in 24 hours. Always use exactly as your doctor or pharmacist tells you to. Leave at least 4 hours between doses.