What is Calpol 500?
Calpol 500 is a paracetamol, also known as acetaminophen, tablet containing 500 mg per tablet. It is used to treat pain and fever. Calpol is a trusted brand in India and many other countries, and while the name is commonly associated with syrup for children, Calpol 500 is for adults or older children who can swallow tablets.
What is it used for?
Calpol 500 is commonly used to:
- Reduce fever (antipyretic effect)
- Relieve mild to moderate pain, such as:
- Headaches and migraines
- Muscle aches
- Joint pain
- Post-vaccination fever or pain
Dosage and Administration
For Adults and Children Over 12 Years:
- 500 mg 1 tablet, every 6 hours if needed.
For Children Under 12:
- Not recommended unless advised by a doctor.
Precautions and Warnings
- Liver safety: Calpol 500 is safe in proper doses, but an overdose can cause serious liver damage.
- Alcohol: Avoid alcohol when taking Calpol 500, as both can strain the liver.
- Avoid duplication: Many cold and flu medicines (like Crocin Cold, Dolo Cold, or Vicks Action 500) already contain paracetamol. Taking Calpol with these can accidentally cause an overdose.
- Pregnancy/Breastfeeding: Generally safe under doctor’s advice, but always check first.
Possible Side Effects (Rare)
- Allergic reactions (rash, swelling, itching)
- In such cases, use antiallergic medicine, e.g., cetirizine.
- Nausea or stomach upset
- In such cases, consult a doctor.
- Liver issues (if overdosed)
- In such cases, consult your local doctor.
When to See a Doctor:
- If fever lasts more than 3 days.
- Pain persists beyond 5 days.
- Signs of liver issues (yellow eyes/skin, dark urine, fatigue)
- You have other medical conditions or are on multiple medications
The chemical formula of paracetamol is:
C₈H₉NO₂
Full IUPAC Name:
N-(4-hydroxyphenyl)acetamide
Structural Information:
- It consists of:
- A benzene ring with a hydroxyl group (-OH) at the para position
- An acetamide group (-NHCOCH₃)
| Property | Value |
| Molecular formula | C₈H₉NO₂ |
| Molecular weight | 151.16 g/mol |
| Drug class | Analgesic, Antipyretic |
| Mechanism of action | Inhibits prostaglandin synthesis in CNS (Central Nervous System) |