PANADREX 500mg Tablets

What is PANADREX 500mg

PANADREX 500mg Tablets is an over-the-counter medication that contains Paracetamol (also known as Acetaminophen), a widely used analgesic (pain reliever) and antipyretic (fever reducer). Each tablet contains 500 milligrams of paracetamol and is intended for oral administration.

• Generic Name: Paracetamol
• Strength: 500mg per tablet
• Form: Oral tablet
• Packaging: 96 tablets (12 tablets per blister × 8)

Paracetamol is commonly used for the relief of mild to moderate pain and fever, including:

• Headache and migraine
• Muscle aches
• Toothache and dental pain
• Fever due to infections or flu
• Dysmenorrhea (menstrual pain)
• Joint pain and back pain

It is considered a first-line treatment due to its high safety margin when used within recommended doses, minimal gastrointestinal side effects, and absence of addictive properties.

How to use PANADREX 500mg

Proper use of PANADREX 500mg ensures its effectiveness while minimizing the risk of side effects. It is important to follow the recommended dosing schedule and administration instructions.

• Route of administration: Oral
• Timing: Take with or without food, with a full glass of water
• Frequency: Every 4–6 hours as needed

Steps for use:

• Check the label or doctor's prescription for the correct dose.
• Swallow the tablet whole with water; do not chew, crush, or break unless advised.
• Do not exceed the recommended frequency of use.

Important precautions:

• Do not take more than 4 grams (4000 mg) of paracetamol in 24 hours.
• Do not double the dose to make up for missed doses.
• Inform your doctor if fever or pain persists for more than 3 days.

PANADREX can be safely used in most adults and adolescents, but dosing should always be adjusted based on age, weight, and medical history.

Mode of Action PANADREX 500mg

Paracetamol works primarily by inhibiting the production of chemical messengers called prostaglandins in the central nervous system. These substances play a key role in generating pain and fever responses in the body.

• Analgesic action:
  • Inhibits cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes in the brain, particularly COX-3.
  • This leads to decreased prostaglandin synthesis, thereby reducing pain perception.
• Antipyretic action:
  • Acts on the hypothalamic heat-regulating center.
  • Lowers elevated body temperature by increasing heat dissipation through vasodilation and sweating.

Unlike NSAIDs, paracetamol has minimal anti-inflammatory effects and does not affect the gastrointestinal lining or platelet function, making it safer for individuals with gastric sensitivity or bleeding disorders.

The onset of action is usually within 30 minutes to 1 hour, with peak effects occurring around 1–2 hours after ingestion. The duration of action typically lasts for 4 to 6 hours.

PANADREX 500mg Interactions PANADREX 500mg

Although paracetamol is generally safe, it can interact with several medications, which may increase the risk of side effects or reduce efficacy. These interactions should be considered, especially during long-term use or in patients with other health conditions.

• Major drug interactions:
  • Warfarin and other anticoagulants: Long-term use of paracetamol may enhance anticoagulant effects, increasing bleeding risk.
  • Alcohol: Chronic alcohol consumption can increase the risk of liver toxicity.
  • Enzyme-inducing drugs: Medications like phenytoin, carbamazepine, and rifampicin may reduce paracetamol’s effectiveness and increase hepatotoxicity risk.
  • Cholestyramine: May reduce the absorption of paracetamol if given too close together.
• Laboratory interactions:
  • May interfere with blood glucose measurements.
  • Can affect uric acid and liver function tests.

Always inform your healthcare provider of all medications, supplements, and herbal remedies you are taking to avoid potential interactions.

Dosage of PANADREX 500mg

Dosing of PANADREX 500mg should be carefully managed to ensure safe and effective relief of pain or fever.

• Adults and children ≥12 years:
  • 500 mg to 1000 mg every 4 to 6 hours as needed
  • Maximum: 4000 mg per day (8 tablets of 500 mg)
• Children under 12 years: Use age-appropriate pediatric formulations (not recommended at 500mg strength)

Key guidelines:

• Maintain a minimum of 4 hours between doses.
• Do not exceed the total daily limit to avoid hepatotoxicity.
• Reduce dose in patients with liver impairment, alcohol use, or malnutrition.

If symptoms persist for more than 3 days (fever) or 5 days (pain), consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation and management.

Possible side effects of PANADREX 500mg

PANADREX 500mg is usually well tolerated, but like all medications, it may cause side effects, especially if used improperly or in high doses.

• Common side effects:
  • Nausea or upset stomach
  • Mild allergic reactions (rash or itching)
  • Dizziness (occasionally)
• Serious but rare side effects:
  • Liver damage (hepatotoxicity) with overdose or prolonged use
  • Severe skin reactions like Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (very rare)
  • Blood disorders (e.g., thrombocytopenia, leukopenia)

Signs of overdose include:

• Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice)
• Loss of appetite, nausea, or vomiting
• Abdominal pain, especially in the upper right quadrant

Seek immediate medical help if any signs of serious reaction or overdose appear.

PANADREX 500mg Contraindications PANADREX 500mg

While PANADREX is safe for most individuals, there are conditions under which it should be avoided or used only under medical supervision.

• Absolute contraindications:
  • Known allergy to paracetamol or any excipients
  • Severe liver failure or active liver disease
• Relative contraindications:
  • Chronic alcoholism
  • Malnutrition or anorexia
  • Severe renal impairment (dose adjustment may be necessary)

Consult a doctor before use if pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking other medications for chronic conditions. Self-medication beyond the recommended dose or duration may result in serious health complications.

Storage of PANADREX 500mg

Proper storage of PANADREX 500mg helps maintain its quality, potency, and safety until the end of its shelf life.

• Temperature: Store below 25°C (77°F)
• Environment: Keep in a dry place, away from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight
• Container: Keep tablets in their original blister packaging until use

Do not use if:

• Tablets are discolored, broken, or have an unusual odor
• The packaging is torn, damaged, or expired

Disposal: Do not flush unused tablets. Dispose of them through pharmacy take-back programs or as per local regulations.

Always keep out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion.