ADOL 500mg Tablets

What is ADOL 500mg

ADOL 500mg Tablets contain Paracetamol (also known as acetaminophen), a widely used over-the-counter analgesic and antipyretic medication. It is primarily used for the relief of mild to moderate pain and for the reduction of fever.

• Therapeutic Class: Analgesic and antipyretic
• Active Ingredient: Paracetamol 500mg
• Dosage Form: Oral tablet
• Pack Size: 1000 tablets (10 tablets per blister × 100 blisters)

ADOL 500mg is commonly recommended for a variety of conditions such as:

• Headache
• Toothache
• Muscle aches
• Back pain
• Fever associated with infections
• Dysmenorrhea (menstrual cramps)
• Osteoarthritis-related discomfort

Its popularity lies in its efficacy, safety profile when used correctly, and suitability for a wide range of age groups, including children, adults, and the elderly.

How to use ADOL 500mg

ADOL 500mg Tablets should be used exactly as directed by a healthcare professional or according to the product’s labeling. Correct usage ensures effectiveness and minimizes the risk of side effects.

• Route of Administration: Oral
• Swallow the tablet whole with water. Do not crush, chew, or split the tablet unless advised by a healthcare provider.
• Can be taken with or without food. Taking it with food may reduce potential gastric discomfort.

General dosing guidelines:

• Adults and adolescents (≥12 years): 500 mg to 1000 mg every 4–6 hours as needed.
• Do not exceed 4000 mg in 24 hours.
• Leave at least 4–6 hours between doses.

Important Usage Tips:

• Always read the patient information leaflet before use.
• Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary.
• Do not use with other medications containing Paracetamol to avoid accidental overdose.
• Seek medical advice if symptoms persist beyond 3 days (for fever) or 5 days (for pain).

Mode of Action ADOL 500mg

Paracetamol’s exact mechanism of action is not fully understood, but several pharmacological actions contribute to its clinical effect.

• Central analgesic effect: Paracetamol is believed to inhibit prostaglandin synthesis in the central nervous system (CNS), particularly by inhibiting the enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX), especially COX-3 in the brain.
• Antipyretic action: It acts on the hypothalamic heat-regulating center, leading to vasodilation and increased peripheral blood flow, which enhances heat dissipation and reduces fever.
• Minimal anti-inflammatory effect: Unlike NSAIDs, paracetamol has little to no peripheral anti-inflammatory activity, which makes it a gentler option for patients with gastrointestinal sensitivity.

Pharmacokinetics:

• Absorption: Rapidly and completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract.
• Onset of action: Within 30 minutes.
• Peak plasma levels: 1–2 hours after oral administration.
• Metabolism: Primarily metabolized in the liver through conjugation pathways (glucuronidation and sulfation).
• Excretion: Via the kidneys as conjugated metabolites.

It does not significantly inhibit peripheral prostaglandin synthesis, hence it spares the gastrointestinal lining and platelet function—making it a preferred option for many patients.

ADOL 500mg Interactions ADOL 500mg

Paracetamol is generally well tolerated, but it can interact with certain medications. These interactions may affect drug levels or increase the risk of toxicity.

• Alcohol: Chronic alcohol use increases the risk of liver toxicity due to induction of liver enzymes that produce toxic metabolites.
• Warfarin and other coumarins: Prolonged use may enhance the anticoagulant effect, increasing the risk of bleeding.
• Carbamazepine, Phenytoin, Phenobarbital: These liver enzyme-inducing anticonvulsants may reduce the efficacy of paracetamol and increase hepatotoxic risk.
• Isoniazid and Rifampin: Concurrent use increases the risk of liver damage.
• Cholestyramine: May reduce paracetamol absorption if taken within 1 hour of administration.
• Metoclopramide and Domperidone: These may accelerate gastric emptying and enhance paracetamol absorption.

Tips to Avoid Interactions:

• Inform your doctor about all medications you are taking.
• Avoid simultaneous use with other paracetamol-containing products.
• Use with caution in patients with hepatic impairment or those on hepatotoxic drugs.

Dosage of ADOL 500mg

The dosage of ADOL 500mg should be individualized based on age, weight, and clinical condition. Always adhere to prescribing information or consult a healthcare provider.

• Adults and adolescents ≥12 years: 500–1000 mg every 4 to 6 hours as required.
• Maximum daily dose: 4000 mg (8 tablets of 500mg).
• Minimum dosing interval: 4 hours.

Special Populations:

• Hepatic Impairment: Dose reduction is necessary. Monitor liver function regularly.
• Renal Impairment: Increase dosing interval (e.g., every 6–8 hours) depending on the degree of impairment.
• Elderly: Usually no dose adjustment is required, but caution is advised in frail patients.

Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. However, if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Never double up.

Possible side effects of ADOL 500mg

Paracetamol is generally safe when used at recommended doses. However, excessive use or individual sensitivity may lead to adverse effects.

• Common (but usually mild):
  • Nausea
  • Rash or allergic skin reactions
  • Headache
• Rare but serious:
  • Hepatotoxicity, especially in overdose
  • Allergic reactions like angioedema or anaphylaxis
  • Blood disorders (e.g., thrombocytopenia, leukopenia)
  • Kidney impairment with chronic use

Signs of Overdose:

• Nausea, vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Abdominal pain
• Yellowing of skin/eyes (jaundice)
• Confusion or unusual drowsiness (late-stage liver failure)

Emergency Action: Seek immediate medical attention if overdose is suspected. Activated charcoal and N-acetylcysteine (NAC) are used as antidotes.

ADOL 500mg Contraindications ADOL 500mg

ADOL 500mg should not be used in certain situations where the risk outweighs the benefit.

• Hypersensitivity: Known allergy to paracetamol or any excipients in the tablet.
• Severe liver disease: Especially with active hepatic failure or cirrhosis.
• Chronic alcohol abuse: Increases risk of hepatotoxicity.
• Severe renal impairment: Requires caution due to altered drug clearance.

Relative contraindications / caution:

• Patients taking other hepatotoxic drugs
• People with malnutrition (e.g., anorexia, cachexia)
• History of drug-induced liver injury

Always consult a healthcare provider if unsure about suitability in specific health conditions.

Storage of ADOL 500mg

Proper storage of ADOL 500mg tablets helps maintain their effectiveness and ensures patient safety.

• Temperature: Store at room temperature (15°C to 30°C).
• Humidity: Keep in a dry place. Avoid exposure to excessive moisture or direct sunlight.
• Original packaging: Keep in the blister pack until ready for use to protect from light and humidity.
• Out of reach: Store out of reach of children and pets.

Do not use:

• If the tablets are discolored, chipped, or crumbling.
• Past the expiry date indicated on the label.

Do not dispose of unused medication via wastewater or household waste. Consult your pharmacist for safe disposal methods to help protect the environment.