ACTIGESIC 1000mg Tablet

What is ACTIGESIC 1000mg

ACTIGESIC 1000mg is a medication containing paracetamol (also known as acetaminophen) as its active ingredient. It is widely used as an analgesic (pain reliever) and antipyretic (fever reducer). ACTIGESIC is effective for relieving mild to moderate pain and reducing fever associated with various conditions.

Common indications for ACTIGESIC include:

• Headache and migraine
• Toothache and dental pain
• Muscle aches, back pain, and arthritis
• Fever due to infections such as colds and flu
• Post-operative pain
• Menstrual cramps

Paracetamol is often preferred because it has a good safety profile when used correctly, is well-tolerated by most patients, and does not cause gastrointestinal irritation or bleeding like NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs).

How to use ACTIGESIC 1000mg

Proper administration of ACTIGESIC ensures its efficacy and safety. Here are key points on how to use this medication:

• Dosage Form: Oral tablets, 1000mg strength.
• Administration: Take the tablet with a glass of water.
• Frequency: Usually taken every 6 to 8 hours as needed.
• Maximum Dose: Do not exceed 4 grams (4000 mg) in 24 hours to avoid liver damage.
• With or without food: Can be taken with or without food. Taking with food may reduce stomach discomfort.
• Duration: Use for the shortest duration necessary to control symptoms. Prolonged use should be under medical supervision.

Important Advice:

• Use a proper measuring device if taking liquid paracetamol instead of tablets.
• Avoid taking other medications containing paracetamol simultaneously to prevent overdose.
• If symptoms persist for more than a few days or worsen, seek medical advice.
• Do not crush or chew tablets unless advised by a healthcare provider.

Mode of Action ACTIGESIC 1000mg

Paracetamol's exact mechanism is not fully understood but involves several key actions:

• Central Analgesic Effect: Paracetamol acts mainly in the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) to reduce pain perception.
• Inhibition of Prostaglandin Synthesis: It inhibits the enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX), particularly COX-2, which reduces the production of prostaglandins—chemical mediators responsible for pain and fever.
• Antipyretic Action: Paracetamol acts on the hypothalamic heat-regulating center in the brain, promoting heat dissipation through vasodilation and sweating to reduce fever.
• Minimal Anti-inflammatory Activity: Unlike NSAIDs, paracetamol has little anti-inflammatory effect, making it less likely to cause gastrointestinal side effects.

Because paracetamol acts mainly centrally and has minimal peripheral anti-inflammatory effects, it is safe for use in patients who cannot tolerate NSAIDs but still require pain and fever relief.

ACTIGESIC 1000mg Interactions ACTIGESIC 1000mg

Although paracetamol is generally safe, certain drug interactions can affect its safety or efficacy:

• Alcohol: Chronic alcohol consumption increases the risk of liver damage from paracetamol overdose.
• Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin): Prolonged use of high-dose paracetamol may enhance anticoagulant effects, increasing bleeding risk. Monitoring is advised.
• Enzyme Inducers (e.g., Rifampicin, Carbamazepine, Phenobarbital): These drugs increase liver enzymes, which can accelerate paracetamol metabolism, potentially reducing its effectiveness and increasing toxic metabolites.
• Cholestyramine: May reduce the absorption of paracetamol if taken together. Take paracetamol 1 hour before or 4-6 hours after cholestyramine.
• Other Hepatotoxic Drugs: Concurrent use with other medications that affect the liver can increase risk of liver toxicity.

Always inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are using before starting ACTIGESIC.

Dosage of ACTIGESIC 1000mg

The dosing of ACTIGESIC depends on age, weight, and medical condition. General adult dosing guidelines are as follows:

• Adults and Adolescents (over 12 years): 500 mg to 1000 mg every 4 to 6 hours as needed.
• Maximum Daily Dose: Do not exceed 4000 mg (4 grams) per day.
• For elderly patients: Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration.
• For children under 12 years: Use pediatric formulations and dosing per body weight, not ACTIGESIC 1000mg tablets.

Special Considerations:

• Hepatic Impairment: Dose adjustment or avoidance may be necessary.
• Renal Impairment: Generally, no dose adjustment required, but caution is advised in severe cases.

Always follow your healthcare provider's dosing instructions carefully.

Possible side effects of ACTIGESIC 1000mg

Paracetamol is usually well tolerated but may cause side effects in some individuals. These include:

• Common Side Effects:
  • Allergic skin reactions such as rash or itching
  • Rarely nausea or stomach upset
• Uncommon Side Effects:
  • Blood disorders like thrombocytopenia (low platelets) or leukopenia (low white blood cells)
  • Liver enzyme elevation with long-term or high-dose use
• Serious Side Effects (Rare):
  • Severe allergic reactions including anaphylaxis (difficulty breathing, swelling)
  • Severe skin reactions (Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis)
  • Hepatotoxicity due to overdose, which can cause liver failure

If you notice any signs of an allergic reaction or persistent side effects, seek medical attention immediately.

ACTIGESIC 1000mg Contraindications ACTIGESIC 1000mg

Use of ACTIGESIC is contraindicated in the following conditions:

• Hypersensitivity: Known allergy to paracetamol or any ingredient in the formulation.
• Severe liver impairment: Patients with advanced liver disease should avoid paracetamol due to risk of hepatotoxicity.
• Severe renal impairment: Caution is advised; avoid if risk outweighs benefits.
• Alcoholism: Chronic alcohol users are at increased risk of liver damage.
• Use of other paracetamol-containing products: Avoid simultaneous use to prevent overdose.

Always consult a healthcare professional if you have any underlying conditions before using ACTIGESIC.

Storage of ACTIGESIC 1000mg

Proper storage ensures the safety and efficacy of ACTIGESIC tablets:

• Temperature: Store at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F).
• Protect from moisture: Keep the tablets in their original blister pack until use to avoid exposure to humidity.
• Avoid direct sunlight: Store away from heat and sunlight to maintain drug stability.
• Keep out of reach of children: Prevent accidental ingestion, especially in households with children.
• Do not use after expiration date: Dispose