Are You Taking Paracetamol Wrong? Here’s How to Get Maximum Pain Relief

Paracetamol Needs Time to Work

Paracetamol works best when it reaches steady state, which happens after about 4-5 doses taken at regular intervals. The correct dosing for most adults is:

✅ 1g every 4-6 hours

✅ Continue for at least 24 hours

✅ Do not exceed 4g (8x500mg tablets) every 24 hours

Stopping after just one or two doses might mean you never experience its full pain-relieving effects.

Steady State occurs when the rate of drug availability in the body and elimination from the body equal one another

Why This Matters

People often give up on paracetamol too early and switch to stronger medications like opioids or NSAIDs, which carry increased side effects such as:

• Stomach issues (from NSAIDs like ibuprofen)

• Drowsiness and dependence (from opioids)

  
  

Using paracetamol correctly can help manage pain effectively and reduce reliance on stronger medications.

Who Should Adjust Their Dose?

For most adults, the standard dose applies: 1g every 4-6 hours, up to 4g per day. However, if you weigh under 50kg or have kidney or liver conditions, you may need a lower dose. Always check with your doctor if you are unsure.

Final Thoughts

Paracetamol is a safe and effective pain reliever—when used correctly. Individual factors such as metabolic rate, liver function, and overall health can influence the exact time to reach steady-state concentrations. Next time you take it, stick with it for at least 5 doses before deciding if it works.

References

[1] Forrest, J. A., Clements, J. A., & Prescott, L. F. (1982). Clinical pharmacokinetics of paracetamol. Clinical pharmacokinetics, 7(2), 93–107. https://doi.org/10.2165/00003088-198207020-00001