Зміст
This is one of the most popular pain relievers. We reach for it when our head breaks, inflammation or fever appears. Moreover, it is readily available and relatively cheap. Paracetamol, since we’re talking about it, can be used in other ways as well. It turns out it can be used to remove stubborn stains and care for plants.
How does paracetamol work on the body?
According to experts, the drug acts on the central nervous system, reducing the intensity of pain signals sent to the brain. In addition, it can inhibit the release of prostaglandins, substances that cause pain and fever.
Indications for the use of paracetamol
Paracetamol is recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) as one of the most important drugs for the treatment of pain associated with various neoplastic diseases. In pharmaceutical doses, it is recommended for use for pain of various origins of mild to moderate intensity. Most often used on:
- temperature decrease,
- symptoms of colds and flu,
- reduction of menstrual pain,
- headaches (tension pain, migraine),
- toothache,
- muscle pain
- arthritis.
Consequences of paracetamol overdose
Paracetamol in too high doses is considered a safe drug, but it is toxic to the liver. Like other drugs, it is metabolized mainly in the liver. Even a slight excess of the permissible dose can cause serious damage to it. Overdosing is easy because we often don’t realize that the medicines we use for colds or pain relievers also contain paracetamol. The desire to quickly overcome the disease often overcomes the mind, as a result of which we even use several drugs at the same time. So you need to carefully read the leaflets and formulations of medicines, and if in doubt, seek help from a pharmacist.
People with chronic liver disease and kidney failure should take extra care when using paracetamol. It is also not recommended to use paracetamol for emaciated or weakened people, as well as for alcoholism.
What to do in case of paracetamol overdose?
Symptoms of a paracetamol overdose can be noticed within a few hours after taking the drug. The first symptom is nausea and vomiting, accompanied by severe abdominal pain and soreness at the location of the liver (that is, in the right hypochondria). Symptoms of acute liver failure appear on the 2-3rd day after poisoning with paracetamol, and their greatest severity – only on the 4th-6th day. On the one hand, this creates great diagnostic difficulties, and on the other hand, it additionally increases the risk of starting the paracetamol antidote too late, which reduces the chances of a person’s survival in case of an overdose of this drug.
Paracetamol poisoning requires immediate hospitalization and the use of N-acetylcysteine, which protects the liver from damage. If you are aware of a paracetamol overdose, see your doctor immediately or go to the hospital without waiting for symptoms to appear.
Paracetamol is a well-known and commonly used drug, but it is worth checking the opinions on its safe dosage. This is especially true for patients with hepatic impairment, children and the elderly, who should try to adjust the dose depending on the clinical situation.
Paracetamol for sweat stains
Just crush a few tablets and mix them with a little water. The paste should be applied to the stains and left for a few minutes. After that, all that remains is to wash the clothes as usual. For safety reasons, it is worth doing a quick test on the inside of the garment beforehand in an inconspicuous place to make sure the paracetamol won’t damage the fabric. Paracetamol paste can be used not only to combat sweat stains, but other stains that have not yet been removed.
Paracetamol against mold and mildew
This popular pain reliever can be used successfully in plant care. Just dissolve a few tablets in water, pour them into a spray bottle and sprinkle gently on the flowers. Thanks to this, they will not be attacked by fungus and mold.
Paracetamol in a cosmetic bag
People with acne should have a supply of paracetamol at home. Crushed tablets combined with warm water can be used as an antibacterial mask. The mixture should be applied to the face and left for 10–15 minutes. The treatment can be repeated twice a week. Regular use of a paracetamol mask should significantly improve the appearance of the skin.
