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Paracetamol
Mild to moderate pain such as headache, toothache and muscle aches, and lowering a fever.
General information only, not medical advice, and no doses. Read the leaflet in your pack and ask a pharmacist about your own situation, other medicines, pregnancy or any health condition.
At a glance
| Generic name | Paracetamol (known as acetaminophen in the US) |
|---|---|
| Type | Pain and fever reliever (analgesic and antipyretic) |
| Commonly used for | Mild to moderate pain such as headache, toothache and muscle aches, and lowering a fever. |
| With food? | Can be taken with or without food. |
| Alcohol | Regular heavy drinking increases the risk of liver harm from paracetamol, so it pays to be careful and stay within the stated daily maximum. |
| Timing | Doses are spaced through the day; never take more than the maximum printed on the pack in 24 hours. |
Food and drink
Can be taken with or without food. Regular heavy drinking increases the risk of liver harm from paracetamol, so it pays to be careful and stay within the stated daily maximum.
When to take it
Doses are spaced through the day; never take more than the maximum printed on the pack in 24 hours.
Good to know
It is hidden inside many combined cold-and-flu remedies, so it is easy to double up by accident — check the labels. If anything about your own use is unclear, a pharmacist can advise for free.
Other common medicines
Ibuprofen
Pain, inflammation and fever — for example period pain, sprains, back pain and dental pain.
Aspirin
Pain and fever at normal doses; a low daily dose is used, only on medical advice, to reduce clotting risk.
Naproxen
Pain and inflammation, including muscle and joint pain and period pain; it is longer-acting than ibuprofen.
Omeprazole
Heartburn, acid reflux and stomach or gut ulcers.
Loratadine
Hay fever and other allergies, and itchy hives.
Cetirizine
Hay fever, allergies and hives.
Source: General medicine information paraphrased from standard patient-information-leaflet guidance. Always read the leaflet in your pack. · checked 2026-09-04
Frequently asked questions
What is Paracetamol used for?
Mild to moderate pain such as headache, toothache and muscle aches, and lowering a fever.
Can I drink alcohol with Paracetamol?
Regular heavy drinking increases the risk of liver harm from paracetamol, so it pays to be careful and stay within the stated daily maximum.
Should I take Paracetamol with food?
Can be taken with or without food.
See the pattern over time
TempoLife logs symptoms, food and sleep, so you can bring a clear picture to your pharmacist or doctor.