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VOLUME 2 , ISSUE 2 ( April-June, 2019 ) > List of Articles

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Paracetamol: The Double-edged Sword Available over the Counter

Thiagarajan Praba, Koyalmannam R Sethuraman, Shilpa Shamsher

Keywords : Drug toxicity, Over the counter, Paracetamol, Safe drug dispensing

Citation Information : Praba T, Sethuraman KR, Shamsher S. Paracetamol: The Double-edged Sword Available over the Counter. 2019; 2 (2):79-80.

DOI: 10.5005/jp-journals-10082-02206

License: CC BY-NC 4.0

Published Online: 01-11-2019

Copyright Statement:  Copyright © 2019; The Author(s).


Abstract

Paracetamol is one of the most widely used drug available over the counter (OTC) which is persistently and heavily promoted by the catchy advertisements all around us. Surprisingly, it is one of the most common drugs for suicide as well. Shockingly, paracetamol causes hepatotoxicity even at therapeutic doses, which has led some national formularies to recommend dose reductions. This article aims to highlight the aspects which are not in the limelight of this widely available OTC medication. In addition to creating awareness, we also suggest implementation of laws to reduce the risks of deliberate and accidental overdose.


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