PANADREX 500mg Tablets

What is PANADREX 500mg

PANADREX 500mg Tablets is a widely used over-the-counter (OTC) medication that contains Paracetamol as its active ingredient. It belongs to a class of drugs known as analgesics (pain relievers) and antipyretics (fever reducers).

• Generic Name: Paracetamol
• Formulation: Oral tablet
• Strength: 500mg of paracetamol per tablet
• Packaging: 48 tablets (4 blisters of 12 tablets)

It is commonly used to alleviate symptoms associated with:

• Headaches and migraines
• Muscular aches and joint pain
• Toothaches
• Back pain
• Fever due to colds, flu, or infections
• Menstrual pain (dysmenorrhea)
• Post-vaccination fever or pain

PANADREX 500mg is known for its excellent safety profile when used as directed. Unlike nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), it does not irritate the stomach or interfere with blood clotting, making it suitable for a wide range of users including the elderly and those with gastric issues.

How to use PANADREX 500mg

Using PANADREX 500mg correctly ensures effective relief from pain or fever while reducing the risk of adverse effects. Always read the patient information leaflet or consult a healthcare provider before use.

• Route: Oral (by mouth)
• Timing: Can be taken with or without food
• Swallow whole: Do not crush or chew the tablet

Instructions for Use:

• Take the tablet with a full glass of water.
• Maintain a minimum interval of 4 hours between doses.
• Do not exceed the total daily maximum dose (4,000mg).
• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for the next one.

Tips for Safe Use:

• Do not combine with other medications containing paracetamol.
• Check with your doctor if symptoms persist for more than 3 days (fever) or 5 days (pain).
• Monitor for signs of liver dysfunction if using for extended periods.

It is essential to use PANADREX exactly as directed to prevent overdose and ensure safe and effective treatment.

Mode of Action PANADREX 500mg

Paracetamol, the active ingredient in PANADREX 500mg, exerts its effects by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins—chemical messengers involved in pain and fever responses. It acts primarily within the central nervous system (CNS).

• Pain relief (Analgesic Effect):
  • Paracetamol inhibits the cyclooxygenase (COX) enzyme, particularly COX-3 in the brain.
  • This leads to reduced synthesis of prostaglandins, which are responsible for triggering pain signals.
• Fever reduction (Antipyretic Effect):
  • Paracetamol acts on the hypothalamus, the brain’s temperature-regulating center.
  • It helps lower elevated body temperature by promoting heat loss through sweating and vasodilation.

Unlike NSAIDs, PANADREX does not significantly reduce inflammation and has minimal effect on peripheral tissues, which contributes to its better gastrointestinal tolerability.

Pharmacokinetics:

• Onset of action: 30–60 minutes after oral administration
• Peak effect: Within 1–2 hours
• Duration: 4–6 hours

Its unique central mechanism and safety make PANADREX 500mg suitable for both acute and chronic mild pain management.

PANADREX 500mg Interactions PANADREX 500mg

PANADREX (Paracetamol) is generally safe but may interact with certain medications, potentially altering its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects, particularly liver-related complications.

• Potential Drug Interactions:
  • Warfarin or other anticoagulants: Prolonged use may increase the risk of bleeding.
  • Alcohol: Chronic alcohol intake significantly increases the risk of liver toxicity.
  • Carbamazepine, phenytoin, rifampicin: These drugs can increase the metabolism of paracetamol, leading to decreased efficacy and increased liver damage risk.
  • Cholestyramine: May reduce paracetamol absorption if taken close together.
• Food Interactions:
  • Paracetamol can be taken with or without food, but fatty meals may delay absorption slightly.
• Lab Test Interference:
  • May cause false readings in blood glucose or uric acid tests.

Always inform your doctor or pharmacist of all medications and supplements you are taking before starting PANADREX 500mg.

Dosage of PANADREX 500mg

The correct dosage of PANADREX 500mg ensures safety and therapeutic efficacy. It should be tailored to the patient’s age, weight, and medical condition.

• Adults and Adolescents (12 years and older):
  • 500mg to 1000mg every 4–6 hours as needed
  • Maximum daily dose: 4000mg (i.e., 8 tablets of 500mg)
• Children under 12: Use pediatric formulations only. PANADREX 500mg is not recommended due to higher dosage strength.

Guidelines:

• Do not exceed the recommended dose under any circumstances.
• In patients with liver disease or alcohol use disorder, consult a doctor before use—lower doses may be needed.
• If pain or fever persists despite appropriate dosing, seek medical advice rather than self-medicating further.

Taking more than the recommended dose can lead to severe liver damage, especially when combined with alcohol or other liver-toxic substances.

Possible side effects of PANADREX 500mg

While PANADREX 500mg is generally well-tolerated, some individuals may experience side effects. These are usually mild but can occasionally be serious, especially with prolonged or excessive use.

• Common Side Effects:
  • Nausea
  • Mild stomach upset
  • Dizziness or tiredness
• Less Common but Serious Effects:
  • Allergic reactions such as rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing
  • Hepatotoxicity (liver damage), particularly in overdose or chronic use
  • Rare skin reactions like Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS)
• Signs of Overdose:
  • Yellowing of the skin/eyes (jaundice)
  • Severe nausea or abdominal pain
  • Confusion or drowsiness

If any severe reactions occur, discontinue use immediately and seek emergency medical attention.

PANADREX 500mg Contraindications PANADREX 500mg

PANADREX 500mg should not be used in certain situations where it may cause harm. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting treatment, especially if any underlying conditions exist.

• Do NOT use if:
  • You are allergic to paracetamol or any of the tablet’s ingredients.
  • You have severe liver disease or active liver failure.
• Use with caution if:
  • You have a history of liver impairment or chronic alcohol use.
  • You are severely malnourished.
  • You are using other medications that affect the liver.

Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should consult a healthcare provider before using PANADREX, although it is generally considered safe when used as directed.

Storage of PANADREX 500mg

Proper storage of PANADREX ensures its effectiveness and safety until the expiry date.

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

Additional storage tips:

• Keep out of reach of children and pets.
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack.
• Discard any tablets that are broken, discolored, or have an unusual odor.
• Do not flush unused medicine—use pharmacy take-back programs if available.

Safe storage prevents accidental ingestion and helps maintain drug stability over time.