Is It Safe to Take 650 mg of Paracetamol on a Regular Basis?

Abstract

The commonest medication to treat moderate to severe pain and fever in adults and children is paracetamol and it has been observed that there has been a rapid increase in the intake of paracetamol-650 since the COVID-19 pandemic and it has continued to date. This analgesic and antipyretic medication showed an increase of 150% in its consumption during the pandemic, simultaneously escalating its self-medication. Concerns have been expressed about the indirect advertising of prescription medications, their illogical use, and improper self-medication, which has resulted in overdose and certain serious side effects. Chronic pain and pyrexia are the most common symptoms witnessed during the COVID-19 pandemic. The intake of paracetamol-650 has also been increased as a prophylactic measure due to the widespread fear generated during COVID-19. The usage of paracetamol has been shifted from 500 mg to 650 mg for mild and moderate pain and fever during and after the end of the pandemic. This raises concerns about the misuse of paracetamol-650mg which may cause damage to the liver, stomach, and kidney chronically. So, this review article aims to generate awareness among the public and physicians about the rationale of paracetamol as an analgesic and antipyretic.