Panamax (Paracetamol)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Panamax Used For?
Panamax is a medication that contains paracetamol, primarily used to alleviate pain and reduce fever.
Primary Uses
It treats conditions such as arthritis, headaches, muscular pain in adults, and teething, earache, and immunisation-related discomfort in children.
How It Works
Panamax works by blocking pain signals from reaching the brain and helps to lower fever.
Good to know: Panamax is not considered addictive.
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How to Take Panamax
Follow the instructions on the label for proper dosing of Panamax.
Dosage Instructions
Adults typically take 1 to 2 tablets every 4 to 6 hours, not exceeding 8 tablets in 24 hours. Children aged 7-12 years may take half to 1 tablet, with a maximum of 4 tablets in 24 hours. For elixirs, dosages vary by age and weight.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your schedule. Do not double up.
Important: Do not exceed the recommended dose unless directed by a doctor.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- Nausea
- Stomach pain
- Indigestion
- Sweating
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing or difficulty breathing
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or other body parts
- Rash, itching, or hives
- Hepatitis symptoms (loss of appetite, yellowing of skin/eyes)
- Severe skin reactions (blisters, peeling skin)
- Symptoms of pyroglutamic acidosis (rapid breathing, heart rate changes)
Important Warnings
Certain precautions must be taken when using Panamax.
Who Should Not Take Panamax
Do not use Panamax if you are allergic to paracetamol or any of its ingredients, have liver or kidney problems, or glucose-6-phosphate-dehydrogenase deficiency.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Consult your doctor if you have allergies, liver or kidney issues, chronic alcohol use, or respiratory difficulties.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Panamax can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding, but it is advised to use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time possible.
Elderly Patients With Dementia: Use caution in elderly patients, particularly those with dementia.
Drug Interactions
Some medications may interact with Panamax, affecting its efficacy.
- Warfarin (blood thinner)
- Epilepsy medications
- Metoclopramide or domperidone (nausea medications)
- Propantheline (stomach ulcer medication)
- Other pain relief medications
- Alcohol and alcohol-containing medications
- Depression medications
- Sleep aids
- Chloramphenicol (antibiotic)
- Flucloxacillin, zidovudine, rifampicin (infection treatments)
- Probenecid (gout treatment)
- Cholestyramine (cholesterol reducer)
Alcohol & Driving
Be cautious with alcohol consumption while taking Panamax.
Alcohol
Limit alcohol intake to small amounts while on Panamax, as excessive drinking may increase liver risks.
Driving and Operating Machinery
No specific warnings mentioned regarding driving.
Storage
Store Panamax below 30°C in a cool, dry place, away from moisture and sunlight. Keep tablets in their blister pack until use.
Overdose Information
In case of overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms may include nausea, dizziness, or sweating. Contact the Poisons Information Centre at 13 11 26 or go to the nearest hospital.
Frequently Asked Questions
Panamax typically begins to relieve pain and reduce fever within 30 minutes to an hour after taking it.
Yes, Panamax can be taken with or without food.
No, Panamax is not considered addictive.
There are no withdrawal symptoms associated with stopping Panamax suddenly.
It is advisable to limit alcohol consumption to small amounts while taking Panamax to avoid liver risks.
Weight gain is not a known side effect of Panamax.
Elderly patients should use Panamax with caution, especially those with dementia.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but do not double up if it's close to your next dose.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.