Media Releases
Guidelines released for safe use of paracetamol
An information campaign about the safe and appropriate use of paracetamol has been launched by Federal Parliamentary Secretary for Health, Trish Worth.
TW 24/2003
2 June 2003
Guidelines released for safe use of paracetamol
An information campaign about the safe and appropriate use of paracetamol was launched today by Federal Parliamentary Secretary for Health, Trish Worth.
The campaign accompanies the release of a draft report on the safety of non-prescription analgesics commissioned by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) and endorsed by the Medicines Evaluation Committee (MEC), the expert advisory committee to the TGA on non-prescription medicines.
"Paracetamol is a safe and effective medicine for the relief of pain and fever, but people must understand that they must follow the directions on the label and not take it for a prolonged period of time without medical supervision," Ms Worth said.
"People could think that because a medicine is widely available over-the-counter and on supermarket shelves, it is totally safe and there would be no harm in taking a larger dose than stated on the label for a headache or toothache, or taking more than one product containing paracetamol.
"However, people need to be aware that taking more than the recommended dose of any pain reliever medicine or continuing it for too long without medical advice can be harmful.
"I believe it is important to continue to educate consumers and health professionals about the possible harmful effects of paracetamol if used inappropriately."
Ms Worth said the report points to some simple rules that should be followed to ensure the safe use of paracetamol. These include:
- Keep to the dosage instructions on the packet;
- Make sure you do not take more than one medicine containing paracetamol at the same time;
- Make sure that the correct strength of paracetamol liquid is given for the age and weight of the child;
- If an overdose has occurred, ring the Poisons Information Centre (13 11 26) or seek medical advice promptly, even if there are no symptoms. The harmful effects of paracetamol may not become apparent for one to two days and can usually be avoided by early treatment;
- Do not give paracetamol to children or adolescents for more than 48 hours, except on medical advice. Children with fever who also have a low food and water intake may be particularly at risk from prolonged dosage with paracetamol;
"The TGA will be working with State and Territory Health Departments and the Australian Self-Medication Industry to find the most effective ways to present these messages to consumers, which is likely to include additional and clearer label warnings and more comprehensive information for consumers.
"A consumer Fact Sheet has been prepared for wide distribution and I will be seeking the support of media and industry to assist in publicising the crucial messages about the safe use of paracetamol.
"I am also keen for health professionals to be better educated in the use of paracetamol in a hospital setting and the TGA will be promoting health worker education through trade publications, professional organisations and the hospital system in each State and Territory."
Ms Worth said she was pleased that the recommendation in the report for an information campaign for over-the-counter pain relievers had the backing of the Australian Self-Medication Industry (ASMI) and she was looking forward to the rapid implementation of the report's recommendations.
Juliet Seifert, Executive Director of the ASMI, said that her organisation is committed to informing consumers and the health professions about the safe use of non-prescription analgesics.
"Like all medicines, it is essential that consumers follow the instructions on labels carefully," Ms Seifert said.
"ASMI is working closely with the TGA to ensure that product labels are set out in such a way that people can easily find and understand the information they need to use the product appropriately and safely. The first labels of paracetamol products reflecting this initiative are already on pharmacy and supermarket shelves around the country."
For more information ask your pharmacist or doctor. Copies of the Report - Review of Non-prescription Analgesics - are available at www.health.gov.au/tga/docs/html/analgupd.htm
Media contact: Mark Williams, Ms Worth's Office, 0401 147 558
Kay McNiece, TGA, 0412 132 585
Fact Sheet - Paracetamol
This fact sheet has been prepared by the Therapeutic Goods Administration to inform consumers about the safe use of paracetamol.
1. Paracetamol has been used in Australia for the relief of pain and fever since the 1950s. It is available in many different forms for adults and children. Common brand names include Panadol, Herron Paracetamol, Panamax, Chemists' Own and Dymadon. Most pharmacy chains and supermarkets also have their own 'house brands'.
2. Paracetamol is safe and effective when taken as directed on the label. However, if taken either in overdose or in amounts that exceed the recommended dose for more than a few days, the unwanted effects can be severe.
3. Paracetamol is generally the medicine of choice for people with chronic pain such as painful osteoarthritis. However, paracetamol should only be used for a long period of time under a doctor's supervision.
4. Many other medicines also contain paracetamol including medicines for coughs and colds, sinus congestion and period pain. The presence of paracetamol is always declared on the label. Be careful not to take more than one medicine containing paracetamol.
5. Liquid paracetamol products for children come in different strengths and product forms such as baby drops and suspensions that are intended for infants and children of different ages and weights. Always read the label before measuring the dose. Be careful not to mix up the strengths as these are only suitable for certain age groups. Always use a metric medicine measure - don't guess the dose.
6. Don't give paracetamol to infants, children or adolescents for more than 48 hours unless advised by a doctor.
7. If an overdose or paracetamol is taken, people should contact the Poisons Information Centre (Phone 131 126) or go to a hospital accident and emergency centre as soon as possible, even if the person who has taken the overdose does not feel ill. The harmful effects of large amounts of paracetamol on the liver are usually delayed so people may feel well for the first day after a paracetamol overdose but can become very sick after that. If treatment is given early enough, there are usually no permanent ill-effects.
8. Tips for safe use of paracetamol for all ages:
- Always follow the directions on the label;
- Take the recommended dose;
- Don't take paracetamol for more than a few days at a time unless specifically advised to by a doctor or pharmacist;
- Don't take more than one medicine containing paracetamol - some cough / cold, sinus and period pain medicines also contain paracetamol - check the label or ask your pharmacist;
- Always store the medicine in a safe place, out of the reach of children;
- If an overdose is taken, ring the Poisons Information Centre (131 126) or go to a hospital straight away;
- If pain persists, see your doctor.
- Make sure you use the right product and strength for the child's age and weight;
- Make sure you use the right dose for the child's age and weight;
- Check the dose on the label every time you use the medicine;
- Don't keep giving paracetamol for more than 48 hours unless specifically advised to by a doctor;
- Always use a metric medicine measure to measure the dose;
- Always make sure the bottle cap is secured after use.
The TGA has published a comprehensive report - Review of Non-prescription Analgesics, which includes paracetamol. This report is available on the TGA's website at www.health.gov.au/tga/docs/html/analgupd.htm
