About paracetamol for adults

Paracetamol is a common painkiller used to treat aches and pain. It can also be used to reduce a high temperature.

It's available to buy from a pharmacy or shop but you may be able to get it on prescription if you have long-term pain. It comes as tablets, capsules, syrup, powder that you mix with water, or suppositories.

Paracetamol is also available combined with other painkillers and anti-sickness medicines. It is used in a wide range of cold and flu remedies.

For under-16s, find out more about paracetamol for children.

Key facts

• Paracetamol can take up to an hour to work.
• The usual dose of paracetamol is one or two 500mg tablets at a time up to 4 times in 24 hours with a maximum of 8 tablets in 24 hours.
• Do not take paracetamol with other medicines containing paracetamol because there is a risk of overdose.
• Paracetamol is safe to take during pregnancy and while breastfeeding, at recommended doses.
• It may not be safe for you to drink alcohol with paracetamol if you have certain health conditions, such as liver problems. Check the leaflet that comes with your medicine.