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| - Last Updated on May 20, 2024 by Neelam Singh
Quick Take
A video on social media claims that the ruling party has increased the dosage of paracetamol from 500 mg to 650 mg. We did the fact check and it turned out to be false.
The Claim
As per a post on X, BJP has increased the effective dosage of paracetamol from 500 mg to 650 mg. In the video, politician Akhilesh Yadav claims that earlier fever subsided by just 500 mg paracetamol. But now it takes 650 mg paracetamol to treat the same fever. He blames it on the BJP.
Fact Check
What is paracetamol and what does it do?
Paracetamol, also known as acetaminophen, is one of the most commonly used medications worldwide for reducing pain and fever. It belongs to the class of drugs known as analgesics (pain killers) and antipyretics (a drug which reduces fever). Paracetamol works by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins in the brain, which are chemicals involved in the perception of pain and regulation of body temperature. By reducing the production of prostaglandins, paracetamol helps ease pain and lower fever.
Do you need a prescription for paracetamol?
No, paracetamol is not a prescription drug in India. It is widely available over-the-counter in various formulations, including tablets, capsules, syrups, and effervescent powders. This accessibility allows people to buy paracetamol without needing a prescription. Paracetamol is commonly used to reduce pain and fever, making it a staple in many households and healthcare settings. Its availability without a prescription makes it easily accessible.
However, while paracetamol is available over the counter, it is important for people to use it responsibly and adhere to recommended dosage instructions. Excessive use or misuse of paracetamol can lead to adverse effects. This also includes liver damage. Therefore, we strongly advise everyone to consult with a healthcare professional if they have any questions or concerns about the proper use of paracetamol. This becomes all the more important, if they experience persistent or severe symptoms.
Overall, the non-prescription status of paracetamol in India reflects its established safety profile when used as directed. It allows for convenient access to this widely used drug for the management of pain and fever.
Is it true that the ruling party has influenced paracetamol dosage in India?
No, there is no evidence to suggest that the BJP or any political party has influenced the dosage of paracetamol from 500 mg to 650 mg. The dosage of medications is usually determined through scientific research, clinical trials, and recommendations from healthcare professionals and regulatory agencies. Political parties do not have a role in this process. Any changes in dosage would likely be based on new scientific evidence or medical guidelines rather than political influence.
Does self-medication influence higher dose paracetamol use in India?
We would like to point out here that since this is a non-prescription drug, paracetamol is widely used and abused alike. People often self-medicate in India, leading to instances of misuse or overuse. A recent study indicates around 52% of people who self-medicate buy paracetamol. This widespread availability and accessibility mean that individuals can buy paracetamol without consulting a healthcare professional. This further leads to the purchasing of higher dose paracetamol, such as 650 mg instead of the standard 500 mg, without consulting a physician. In many cases, individuals rely solely on the advice of pharmacists when selecting medications. Most of them may not seek guidance from a healthcare professional.
Nevertheless, the lack of consultation with a physician means that individuals may not have proper guidance on the appropriate dosage for their specific needs. Furthermore, pharmacists may not always provide adequate information about the potential risks associated with higher dose paracetamol or the importance of following recommended dosage guidelines. As a result, the uninformed consumption of higher dose paracetamol without proper medical expertise can increase the likelihood of adverse effects and health complications.
How can self medication be harmful?
Self-medication can be harmful for several reasons. Firstly, without proper medical training, individuals may misdiagnose their condition or fail to recognise underlying health issues. This can result in inappropriate treatment or neglect of more serious medical issues that require professional intervention. To add, self-medication often involves the use of over-the-counter medications without consulting a healthcare professional. These medicines may be readily available and seem harmless, but they can still pose risks. This is especially true if taken in incorrect doses or in combination with other medications.
Moreover, individuals may not be aware of potential side effects or drug interactions, increasing the likelihood of adverse reactions or complications. Also, self-medication can delay or prevent people from seeking necessary medical care, leading to worsened symptoms or untreated conditions. Therefore, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment recommendations.
How is a drug formulated and approved?
The formulation and approval of drugs involve a rigorous process that ensures their safety, efficacy, and quality. Pharmaceutical companies invest significant resources in research and development to discover and develop new medications. Once a potential drug candidate is identified, it undergoes preclinical testing in laboratory and animal studies to evaluate its safety and effectiveness. If the results are promising, the drug progresses to clinical trials, which involve testing in human volunteers to assess its safety and efficacy in real-world conditions.
In India, following successful clinical trials, the pharmaceutical company submits a New Drug Application (NDA) or Marketing Authorisation Application (MAA) to regulatory agencies such as the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO). The CDSCO, along with its various state counterparts, reviews the scientific data provided by the pharmaceutical company to assess the safety, efficacy, and quality of the drug. This rigorous review process ensures that the drug meets the required standards and regulations set forth by Indian drug regulatory authorities. Similarly, in the United States and Europe, following successful clinical trials, the pharma company submits a New Drug Application or Marketing Authorisation Application to regulatory agencies such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA), respectively.
How do doctors prescribe medicines?
Doctors prescribe medicines based on a variety of factors, including the patient’s medical condition, age, weight, and ongoing medicines. Dosage recommendations are often determined by clinical guidelines established by medical organisations and expert consensus rather than political influence. Healthcare professionals rely on their training, experience, and knowledge of medical literature to make informed decisions about the appropriate use of drugs for their patients.
Why is it important to stick to prescriptions and follow doctor’s advice?
We suggest everyone adhere to prescriptions and follow the advice of healthcare professionals when taking medications. Deviating from prescribed dosages can lead to ineffective treatment or harm. This may include adverse side effects or drug interactions. Healthcare decisions should be based on medical expertise and individual patient needs, rather than political considerations. Patients are encouraged to communicate openly with their healthcare providers and ask questions about their treatment to ensure they receive the best possible care.
In conclusion, the claim that the ruling political party is responsible for the increase in paracetamol dosage from 500 mg to 650 mg is false. Political parties do not play a role in determining prescription medication dosages. The dosages are established through scientific research, clinical guidelines, and medical expertise. It is essential to rely on medical professionals for healthcare advice and adhere to prescribed treatment guidelines.
What are the side effects of paracetamol?
The side effects of paracetamol are generally mild when taken at the recommended dosage. However, in some cases, individuals may experience adverse reactions, including:
- Liver Damage: Excessive or prolonged use of paracetamol can lead to liver damage, especially if taken in doses higher than recommended or in combination with alcohol.
- Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to paracetamol, which can manifest as skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue, and difficulty breathing.
- Gastrointestinal Issues: Paracetamol may cause gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, although these are less common.
- Blood Disorders: In rare cases, paracetamol can affect the production of blood cells, leading to conditions such as thrombocytopenia (low platelet count) or agranulocytosis (low white blood cell count).
- Kidney Damage: Prolonged use of high doses of paracetamol may increase the risk of kidney damage or kidney failure.
These side effects are relatively rare when paracetamol is used as directed. But still, individuals should seek medical attention if they experience any severe or persistent side effects due to paracetamol.
We have done several fact checks on paracetamol earlier as well. Have a look at Can paracetamol damage organs or cause piles? Should we reconsider using paracetamol to control fever? Is paracetamol the worst drug with several side effects?
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