Popping Paracetamol a Dangerous Trend in India - What is the Safe Limit of taking Paracetamol

Head hurts after a busy day or sneezing due to dust storm or legs hurt after gym session or its period pain... extending our arm and silently slipping a dolo or crocin is the road to instant relief. But overdosing on paracetamol is very easy and at times its side effects are not immediately known the scarring of kidneys and liver are felt in long run.

What is the safe dose of Paracetamol in India?

1. In India, the safe limit for paracetamol is not explicitly stated, but it can be inferred from various sources. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) recommends that adults should not take more than 3 grams per day. However, this limit applies to short-term use only.
2. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA) recommend a maximum daily dose of 4 grams for healthy adults. This recommendation is based on studies showing that doses above 4 grams can lead to increased risk of liver damage.
3. In India, most over-the-counter (OTC) paracetamol products have labeling stating "not more than 3 tablets (650 mg each) in 24 hours." This implies a maximum daily dose of approximately 1.95 grams (3 tablets x 650 mg each).

Why People Mistakenly Overdose on Paracetamol?

1. Misconceptions about dosage: Many people believe that taking more paracetamol will lead to faster relief from pain or fever.
2. Underestimating the dose: People might not realize how much paracetamol they are consuming, especially when taking multiple products containing the same active ingredient (e.g., combination products like cough medicines).
3. Frequent use: Regularly using OTC medications can lead to tolerance and a decrease in perceived efficacy, prompting individuals to take more doses.
4. Lack of awareness about liver damage risks: Paracetamol overdose can cause significant liver damage, even at high doses below the toxic threshold (50-75 mg/kg body weight).
5. Co-medications interactions: Combining paracetamol with other medications, such as alcohol or certain antibiotics, can increase the risk of adverse effects.
6. Self-medication without consulting a doctor: Without proper guidance from a healthcare professional, people may not be aware of potential interactions or contraindications.

Besides viral or any other infectious issues, if your pain management requires a daily diet of pain killer then it is a time for overhauling your life style and diet.

1. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, and avoid sugary or caffeinated beverages that can dehydrate you. Get a personalized water bottle to motivate oneself.
2. Get enough sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night to help your body recover from stress and fatigue.
3. Exercise regularly: Engage in physical activities like walking, yoga, or swimming to reduce stress and improve circulation.
4. Manage stress: Practice relaxation techniques like meditation, deep breathing, or progressive muscle relaxation to cope with stress.
5. Eat a balanced diet: Focus on whole foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
6. Avoid triggers: Identify and avoid foods that can trigger headaches in you, such as Gluten, Dairy, Processed meats, Sugary snacks. Dry eyes are another lesser known reason for headaches.
7. Magnesium-rich foods: Include magnesium-rich foods like dark leafy greens (spinach, kale), nuts (almonds, cashews), seeds (pumpkin, sesame), and whole grains in your diet.
8. Omega-3 rich foods: Consume omega-3 rich foods like fatty fish (salmon, sardines), walnuts, and chia seeds to help reduce inflammation.