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Key Facts
- Drug Class
- Non-opioid analgesic and antipyretic
- Prescription
- Over the counter
- NAFDAC Status
- NAFDAC Registered
- Forms
- Tablet, Suspension, Suppository, Injection
- Price Range
- ₦50 - ₦2,000
- WHO Essential
- Yes
What is Paracetamol?
Paracetamol (also known as acetaminophen) is the most widely used medication in Nigeria and arguably the most recognised drug name in the country. From the roadside chemist in Oshodi to the pharmacy in Wuse, you will find paracetamol on every shelf. It is a non-opioid analgesic and antipyretic, meaning it relieves pain and reduces fever without the risks associated with stronger painkillers. Almost every Nigerian household keeps paracetamol at home as the go-to remedy for headaches, body pain, and fever, especially during malaria episodes.
Paracetamol works by blocking the production of certain chemicals in the brain called prostaglandins, which are responsible for sending pain signals and raising body temperature. Unlike NSAIDs such as ibuprofen and diclofenac, paracetamol does not have significant anti-inflammatory properties, which is why it is often combined with other medications when inflammation is present. It is available in Nigeria under popular brand names including Emzor Paracetamol, Panadol, Boska, and M&B Paracetamol, all of which are NAFDAC-registered.
One of the key advantages of paracetamol is its excellent safety profile when taken at recommended doses. It is considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding, making it the preferred painkiller and fever reducer for expectant and nursing mothers across Nigeria. It is also widely used for children in suspension form, with brands like Calpol being a staple in Nigerian homes with young children. However, it is critically important to note that exceeding the recommended dose can cause severe, potentially fatal liver damage.
What is Paracetamol used for?
In Nigeria, Paracetamol is commonly used for:
- Relief of mild to moderate pain including headaches, toothache, and body aches
- Reduction of fever (antipyretic), especially malaria-associated fever which is extremely common in Nigeria
- Pain management after minor surgical procedures
- Menstrual pain relief
- Muscle and joint pain from everyday activities
- As a first-line treatment for pain and fever in children and pregnant women due to its safety profile
Dosage
IMPORTANT
Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions. The information below is for general reference only.
Adults
500mg to 1000mg (1-2 tablets of 500mg) every 4 to 6 hours as needed. Maximum daily dose is 4000mg (8 tablets of 500mg) in 24 hours. Do not exceed this limit to avoid liver damage.
Children
Dose depends on the child's weight and age. For children aged 6-12 years: 250mg to 500mg every 4-6 hours. For children aged 1-5 years: 120mg to 250mg every 4-6 hours. Paediatric suspension (120mg/5ml or 250mg/5ml) is recommended for accurate dosing. Always use the measuring spoon provided.
Elderly
Standard adult doses apply, but elderly patients with liver or kidney problems should use lower doses. Consult a pharmacist or doctor for guidance.
Always allow at least 4 hours between doses. Do not take paracetamol with other medications that contain paracetamol (such as cold and flu combinations) to avoid accidental overdose. If you are taking paracetamol for more than 3 days for fever or 7 days for pain without improvement, please see a doctor.
Side Effects
Common side effects
- •Paracetamol has very few side effects when taken at recommended doses
- •Rare skin rashes or allergic reactions
- •Nausea in some individuals, especially on an empty stomach
Serious side effects — seek medical help immediately
- Severe liver damage from overdose (taking more than 4000mg in 24 hours)
- Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) — very rare but seek emergency help if you develop swelling of the face, tongue, or throat
- Skin reactions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome — extremely rare
- Blood disorders with long-term excessive use
When to see a doctor
Seek immediate medical attention if you suspect you have taken more than the recommended dose, even if you feel fine, as liver damage may not show symptoms for several days. Also see a doctor if you develop yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, persistent nausea or vomiting, or any allergic reaction such as rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
Warnings & Precautions
Do not take Paracetamol if you have:
- Do not take if you have severe liver disease or liver failure
- Do not take if you have a known allergy to paracetamol or any of the tablet ingredients
- Avoid if you have acute hepatitis or are a chronic heavy alcohol drinker (3 or more drinks daily) without consulting a doctor
Drug interactions
- •Warfarin (blood thinner) — regular paracetamol use can increase the anticoagulant effect; inform your doctor if you are on warfarin
- •Alcohol — drinking alcohol while taking paracetamol increases the risk of liver damage
- •Other medications containing paracetamol — many cold and flu remedies, cough syrups, and combination painkillers contain paracetamol; check labels to avoid double dosing
- •Carbamazepine, phenytoin, and rifampicin may increase the risk of liver damage when taken with paracetamol
- •Metoclopramide and domperidone may increase the absorption rate of paracetamol
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Paracetamol is considered the safest painkiller and fever reducer during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It has been used by millions of pregnant women worldwide without evidence of harm to the baby. It is the first-choice medication for pain and fever in all trimesters of pregnancy. Only small amounts pass into breast milk and it is safe to use while breastfeeding. Always use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time necessary.
NAFDAC-Registered Brands of Paracetamol in Nigeria
5 brands registered with NAFDAC as of 2026-02-01.
| Brand Name | Manufacturer | Strength | Form | NAFDAC Reg. No. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Emzor Paracetamol | Emzor | 500mg | Tablet | A4-0012 |
| Panadol | GlaxoSmithKline | 500mg | Tablet | A4-0234 |
| Boska | Hovid | 500mg | Tablet | A4-1456 |
| M&B Paracetamol | May & Baker | 500mg, 120mg/5ml | Tablet | A4-2567 |
| Calpol | GSK | 120mg/5ml, 250mg/5ml | Suspension | A4-0235 |
How to Verify Your Paracetamol is Genuine
- 1Check the NAFDAC registration number on the pack — all genuine paracetamol brands sold in Nigeria must have a NAFDAC number starting with a registration code (e.g., A4-XXXX or similar format)
- 2Verify the NAFDAC number using the NAFDAC Green Book or the NAFDAC mobile verification app available on Android and iOS
- 3Buy only from licensed pharmacies and registered patent medicine stores — avoid buying loose tablets from bus stops or street vendors
- 4Check the expiry date on the packaging and ensure the pack is properly sealed without signs of tampering
- 5Genuine tablets should have consistent size, shape, and colour — if tablets look irregular, crumbly, or discoloured, do not take them
- 6For Emzor, Panadol, and other major brands, look for security features such as holographic stickers or batch numbers on the outer packaging
Paracetamol Price in Nigeria
Paracetamol prices in Nigeria typically range from ₦50 to ₦2,000 per pack, depending on the brand, strength, and where you buy it.
₦50 – ₦2,000
per pack
Prices vary by location and vendor. Last updated: 2026-02-01
Where to Buy
Purchase Paracetamol only from licensed pharmacies and verified distributors. Avoid buying medicines from unverified sources, roadside vendors, or unregistered market stalls.
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources
- •NAFDAC Greenbook — National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control registered products database
- •WHO Model List of Essential Medicines (23rd List, 2023)
- •British National Formulary (BNF)
- •Nigerian Standard Treatment Guidelines