The headaches of paracetamol
The common, over-the-counter pain medication is not without its risks and side effects
- Published: 16 Oct 2012 at 00.00
- Newspaper section: Life
It helps reduce a high temperature. It helps with a terrible toothache. It helps relieve the pain of menstrual cramps. It helps manage mild pain and swelling of joints. It helps ease migraine attacks. It's paracetamol.
From a slight fever to few minor aches and nagging pains, paracetamol _ also known as acetaminophen _ can help. This remedy is a must-have in every household medicine cabinet. It is often prescribed by doctors and can be purchased over the counter.
There are two main categories of over-the-counter pain relievers. Acetaminophen is meant to lower a fever and ease pain but it doesn't help with inflammation, while non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are used to reduce pain and inflammation. Examples of NSAIDs include aspirin and ibuprofen as well as many medications taken for colds and allergies.
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