Side Effects of Paracetamol & Other Painkillers

Paracetamol Side Effects 

Paracetamol is generally well tolerated when used as directed.⁵ Like all medications, paracetamol can have side effects, but not everybody gets them. A small number of people have had side effects. You should stop taking paracetamol and speak to your doctor immediately if you experience any of these side effects:

• You experience a skin rash or peeling, or mouth ulcers
• You’ve ever experienced breathing problems with aspirin or non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, and experience a similar reaction with paracetamol
• You experience unexplained bruising or bleeding⁶

Who can take diclofenac?

Most adults can take diclofenac as an effective form of pain relief for aches, pains, swelling, and stiffness of the joints.

Children can take diclofenac, but age restrictions are dependent on the formulation. It’s important to always read the product labeling to determine if it is appropriate for children and adolescents. Effective treatment is dependent on their age and the type of medicine e.g topical gel or tablets. For example, diclofenac gel is only suitable for children above the age of 12.¹¹

Check the instruction leaflet or speak to your doctor before treating your little one with diclofenac.

Always discuss the best treatment options with your doctor before taking any pain relief medication when pregnant. Do not use if you are in the last 3 months of pregnancy, as it could harm your unborn child or cause problems at delivery.¹²

Taking diclofenac can result in adverse effects for some people. Before taking oral diclofenac you should talk to your doctor if you: 

• have established disease of the heart or blood vessels (also called cardiovascular disease), including uncontrolled high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, established ischemic heart disease, or peripheral arterial disease;
• have significant risk factors for cardiovascular disease such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, high triglycerides, diabetes, or if you smoke;
• have ever had gastrointestinal problems such as stomach ulcer, bleeding or black stools;
• have had stomach discomfort or heartburn after taking pain relievers or anti-inflammatory medicines in the past;
• have bowel problems;
• are taking other pain relievers or anti-inflammatory medicines;
• have an allergic disease, wheezing or shortness of breath or nasal polyps;
• have liver or kidney problems;
• have swollen feet;
• are at risk of being dehydrated (e.g. by sickness, diarrhoea, or before or after major surgery);
• have a bleeding disorder or other blood disorders, including a rare liver condition called hepatic porphyria.¹³

If you are using topical diclofenac do not apply it to skin with conditions such as cuts, open wounds, or on skin that has a rash or eczema. If you develop a skin rash after applying the product discontinue use.