The most popular antipyretic in the population is paracetamol and preparations based on it: Fervex, Panadol, Teraflu, etc. Nonprescription medicine is considered relatively safe. Few people know that paracetamol overdose is dangerous for health and, first of all, for the condition of the liver and kidneys.
When can not I take paracetamol?
It should be taken into account that there are a number of contraindications for the use of paracetamol:
- liver disease;
- chronic kidney disease;
- individual sensitivity to the drug;
- alcohol abuse.
Also, carefully take medicine for pregnant women and nursing mothers. Do not use paracetamol in combination with liver enzyme drug inducers, for example, phenobarbital. If the patient is not at risk, sustains the dose, observes the time interval between doses, then there can not be an overdose. In cases of misuse, neglect of the recommendations given in the manual, there may be side effects.
Symptoms of an overdose of paracetamol
The main signs of an overdose of paracetamol are:
- an allergic reaction in the form of skin rashes, itching, edema of tissues;
- abdominal pain;
- nausea and vomiting;
- excessive excitability or drowsiness;
- renal colic.
At the physiological level, the level of hemoglobin falls sharply. Anticipating the question of how many paracetamol tablets can cause an overdose, we will hasten to calm down: experts have established that a single poisonous effect can be given by a single dose of 20 tablets of 0.5 g (10 g of the drug). The most curious, most likely, will be interested: if all the same the person has taken a critical dose, what will happen from an overdose of paracetamol?
Consequences of an overdose of paracetamol
As a result of absorption, the drug is carried by the bloodstream and enters the liver. With an overabundance of the substance, a metabolic process takes place, with the release of products destroying the liver cells. An important organ ceases to function, an intoxication of the organism occurs, and the patient in this case can save only a liver transplant.
Unfortunately, in medical practice, there are cases when people who took large doses of paracetamol, used several medicines containing this substance or who have chronic liver diseases ( cirrhosis , hepatitis, etc.), died because of their imprudence.