At a glance

QUICK SUMMARY

01 Type of medicine

Analgesic and antipyretic (painkiller and fever reducer)

02 Generic
03 Active ingredient

Paracetamol 500 mg per caplet

04 Effective within
05 Works by

Reducing the production of prostaglandins in the brain, which lowers pain and fever

06 Side effects

Medication details

Description

Superdrug Paracetamol 500mg Caplets (32)

Paracetamol 500mg caplets for mild to moderate pain and fever, in a pack of 32. Each coated caplet contains 500mg of paracetamol and is shaped to be easy to swallow. Suitable for adults and children aged 10 and over.

How it works

Paracetamol acts mainly within the central nervous system, reducing production of the chemical messengers that signal pain and that raise body temperature. It has little anti inflammatory effect in the tissues, which is what distinguishes it from ibuprofen, and is why the two work differently and are often suitable to take together, one acting centrally and the other at the site of inflammation.

How to use it

Swallow the caplets with water, with or without food, following the dosing on the pack and leaving at least four hours between doses. Never exceed the maximum in 24 hours. The most important habit is checking every other medicine you take, including cold and flu remedies, sachets, hot drinks and combination painkillers, since many contain paracetamol and the totals add up without being obvious.

Who it is for

It is suitable for adults and children aged 10 and over at the doses on the pack. Paracetamol is generally the painkiller of choice in pregnancy, though it is worth confirming with a pharmacist or midwife. Tell a pharmacist if you have liver problems, drink heavily, are significantly underweight or take warfarin.

Safety and when to get advice

At the correct dose paracetamol is very well tolerated. Taking more than the maximum can cause serious liver damage even when you feel completely well at first, and treatment works best when given early, so seek immediate medical advice if too much has been taken rather than waiting for symptoms. See a doctor if you need painkillers most days for more than a couple of weeks, or for a fever that persists. Our UK pharmacy team can answer questions about this product before you buy.

Common questions

From what age can it be given?
Adults and children aged 10 and over, at the doses printed on the pack.

Can I take it with ibuprofen?
Usually yes, since they work in different ways. A pharmacist can confirm for your situation.

How do I avoid taking too much?
Check the ingredients of every other remedy you use. Many cold and flu products contain paracetamol.

Always read the patient information leaflet supplied with the pack before use.

Directions

Adults and children aged 16 and over: swallow one or two caplets with water every four to six hours as needed. Do not take more than eight caplets (4g) in 24 hours. Children aged 10 to 15: one caplet every four to six hours, up to a maximum of four caplets in 24 hours. Not suitable for children under 10 without medical advice. Do not take with any other paracetamol-containing product.

Ingredients

Each caplet contains paracetamol 500 mg as the active ingredient. Other ingredients typically include maize starch, potassium sorbate, purified talc, stearic acid, povidone, soluble starch and other excipients. Check the packaging for the full list.

Side Effects

Side effects are rare at recommended doses. Very rarely, allergic reactions such as skin rash or swelling may occur. Overdose can cause serious liver damage even before symptoms appear. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.

Warnings

Do not exceed the stated dose. Do not take with other paracetamol-containing products. Immediate medical advice should be sought in the event of an overdose, even if you feel well. Keep out of the reach and sight of children. If you take warfarin or other blood-thinning medicines, speak to a pharmacist before taking paracetamol regularly.

Medically reviewed and published

  • This page was medically reviewed by Dr Sohaib Imtiaz, Clinical Lead on

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FAQs

Please read our FAQs page to find out more.

What is the difference between a caplet and a standard tablet?

A caplet is a tablet with a smooth, elongated shape and a coated surface, which some people find easier to swallow than a round tablet. The active ingredient and dose are the same as a standard 500mg paracetamol tablet.

Can I take these alongside other medicines that contain paracetamol?

No. Many cold and flu remedies, co-codamol, and other combination painkillers already contain paracetamol. Taking extra paracetamol on top can lead to a dangerous overdose. Always check the ingredients of anything else you are taking.

What is the maximum dose for adults?

Adults and children aged 16 and over: one or two caplets every four to six hours as needed, up to a maximum of eight caplets (4g) in 24 hours. Do not exceed this amount even if you are still in pain.

Why is paracetamol overdose dangerous even if you feel fine?

Paracetamol overdose can cause serious liver damage, but symptoms may not appear until several days later, by which time permanent harm may have occurred. If you think you or someone else may have taken too much, seek medical attention immediately even if you feel well.

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