This article was written by Cao Thanh Tú - Pharmacist - Vinmec Times City International General Hospital.
Efferalgan in particular and drugs containing only paracetamol in general do not cause drowsiness. Be cautious when combining Efferalgan with other medications to avoid overdose, especially pain relievers, and medications for cough and cold symptoms.
1. What is efferalgan 500mg?
Efferalgan contains the main active ingredient paracetamol (or Acetaminophen), a substance that has analgesic and antipyretic effects. The drug is formulated as effervescent tablets, so users must dissolve the drug in a glass of water before drinking. Because the drug has been released and dissolved before entering the body, it has a faster effect and is suitable for people with difficulty swallowing.
2. Does Efferalgan 500mg Cause Drowsiness?
Efferalgan in particular and drugs containing only paracetamol in general do not cause drowsiness. Currently, no effects of Efferalgan 500mg on driving and operating machinery have been reported. However, there is a product on the market called Efferalgan Codeine, which contains both paracetamol and codeine—a substance that may cause drowsiness and dizziness. Therefore, be cautious when using Efferalgan Codeine while driving, operating machinery, or performing tasks requiring alertness.
3. Precautions When Using Efferalgan
The tablet must be completely dissolved in a glass of water (about 200 milliliters) before drinking. Never break the effervescent tablet into smaller pieces or put the whole tablet directly into your mouth to swallow.
People with liver or kidney disease, chronic alcoholism, excessive alcohol consumption, or a history of alcohol dependence should consult a doctor before use. Do not drink alcohol or alcoholic beverages while taking the medication, as alcohol can increase the drug's toxicity to the liver and kidneys.
Some people may be allergic to the drug. Therefore, when you notice the first signs of a skin rash or any other signs of hypersensitivity reactions, the patient should stop using the drug. People who have had severe skin reactions caused by paracetamol should not use the drug again and should inform healthcare professionals about this issue when seeking medical treatment.
In general, the drug is safe when used at the recommended dose.
Using the drug in doses exceeding the recommended amount can cause liver and kidney toxicity, with symptoms such as dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice, and, more dangerously, it can lead to death.
Overdose symptoms: poisoning symptoms usually appear within the first 24 hours, including nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, pale skin, discomfort, and sweating. Overdose can lead to complete and irreversible liver necrosis. Currently, there are many drugs on the market containing paracetamol, so be cautious when combining Efferalgan with other drugs to avoid overdose, especially pain relievers and medications for cough and cold symptoms.
Efferalgan 500mg should not be used for more than 5 days in cases of pain or more than 3 days in cases of fever. If the pain lasts longer than 5 days or the fever lasts longer than 3 days, and if the symptoms become more severe or any other symptoms appear, do not continue to use the drug unless directed by a doctor.
Store this medicine in a dry place to protect it from moisture. Each dose contains 412.4 mg of sodium, which should be considered by those on a salt-reduction diet or low-sodium diet.
To arrange an appointment, please call HOTLINE or make your reservation directly HERE. You may also download the MyVinmec app to schedule appointments faster and manage your reservations more conveniently.
