Paracetamol:

Information for patients

Ensure your patients are aware that:

• Paracetamol is the active ingredient in a number of pain and fever relief medicines and combination medicines (eg, for cold and flu).
  

• Overdose can occur when taking more than one paracetamol-containing medicine.
  

• The maximum daily dose of 4 g in any given 24 hour period should not be exceeded for adults and children aged > 12 years.
  

When recommending paracetamol for pain relief in children and infants less than 12 years of age, ensure carers know the following:

• Paracetamol comes in different formulations and strengths for different ages. It is important to choose the correct paracetamol product for the child's age.
  

• Always read the medicine label and packaging before use.
  

• Knowing the child's weight – the recommended dose of paracetamol for children is based on ideal body weight (15 mg/kg).a
  

• Never exceed the maximum recommended dosage for children of 15 mg/kg every 4–6 hours to a maximum of 1 g, and no more than 4 doses in a 24-hour period.
  

• It is important to measure liquid medicines accurately using the syringe or device provided.
  

• Keep track of all medicines given to the child, and when they were given.
  

• Store medicines out of reach of children.
  

• Children more than 20% above their ideal body weight should be dosed according to their lean body weight which can be estimated by determining their predicted weight for height.

(from NPS Medicine wise: https://www.nps.org.au/news/safe-and-appropriate-use-of-paracetamol-closing-the-consumer-knowledge-gap)