Paracetamol + ascorbic acid is a combination of the analgesic paracetamol (internationally known as acetaminophen) and vitamin C. It has analgesic (pain-relieving) and antipyretic (fever-reducing) actions and is one of the most taken over-the-counter drugs.
Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin that is derived from and naturally found in citrus fruit such as lemons and oranges, along with various other fruits and vegetables. It plays an important role in various cellular functions such as collagen production and is a potent antioxidant that guards against free radical damage and boosts immunity.
Paracetamol + ascorbic acid is mainly indicated to treat the following:
Paracetamol + ascorbic acid is available as an oral tablet or capsule. The oral tablets and capsules should be taken by mouth without chewing or crushing it. The tablets should be taken with food to prevent gastric irritation.
This drug should be stored at room temperature (<30°C) and be protected from light and moisture. Do not allow this product to freeze. Always check the label before using this product. For safety, keep out of the reach of children and pets.
Do not use if the printed expiration date has passed, the product seal has been broken, or the product has changed in color, odor, or consistency.
Do not dispose of this product by pouring it down the drain, toilet, or into the environment. Ask your pharmacist regarding the proper way and location of disposal.
Both paracetamol and ascorbic acid are generally safe to take. High doses of paracetamol may result in liver damage with prolonged use, especially when it is taken with alcohol or other drugs that are extensively metabolized by the liver.
As a water-soluble vitamin, ascorbic acid toxicity is extremely rare. Despite this, avoid prolonged, high doses of vitamin C as the protective benefit does not increase beyond the recommended doses. In rare cases, high-dose vitamin C supplementation can increase the risk of gastrointestinal disturbances, iron overload, and kidney stones.
Before using this medication, inform your doctor if:
This drug combination is generally safe for pregnant women, however, there is no data available from controlled human studies that determine this preparation’s safety during pregnancy. This drug should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus, as determined by your doctor.
This drug may be excreted in breast milk. This drug should be used while breastfeeding only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the child, as determined by your doctor.
All drugs have the potential to elicit side effects even with normal use. Many side effects are dose-related and will resolve when it is adjusted or at the end of therapy.
Potential side effects while using this drug include:
You may experience some, none, or other side effects not mentioned above. If you have any concerns about a side effect or it becomes bothersome, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
This drug may interact with other medications. To avoid any potential drug interactions, you should keep a list of all the drugs you are using (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products) and inform your doctor and pharmacist.
Known drugs and their interactions with paracetamol + ascorbic acid includes:
If you experience an adverse drug interaction, stop taking this drug and continue taking your other medication. Inform your doctor immediately to reevaluate your treatment plan. Your dose may need to be adjusted, substituted with another drug, or discontinue using the drug.
The absorption rate is slightly decreased with food, however, taking it with a meal prevents gastrointestinal distress. This drug should not be taken with alcohol as it may increase the risk of gastrointestinal discomfort, bleeding, and hepatotoxicity.
Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any concerns regarding food-drug interactions.
This drug should be taken with caution if you have any of the following conditions or risk factors:
Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any concerns regarding specific health conditions.
The information provided is not a substitute for any medical advice. You should ALWAYS consult with your doctor or pharmacist before using paracetamol + ascorbic acid.
This drug is available in the following dosage forms and strengths:
Paracetamol
Ascorbic acid
In case of an emergency or an overdose, call your local emergency services or go to your nearest emergency room. Symptoms of overdose may include:
In severe cases:
The antidote for paracetamol overdose and toxicity is N-acetylcysteine (NAC) and should be used within 8 hours up to 24 hours after ingestion. Activated charcoal may be administered within 1 hour after ingestion.
If you miss a dose of this drug, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your regular dose as scheduled. Do not take a double dose.
Disclaimer
Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Comments
Share your thoughts
Be the first to let Hello Doctor know your thoughts!
Join Us or Log In to join the discussion