Calpol Syrup Side Effects (Nuksanat)
Calpol Syrup (Paracetamol 120mg/5ml) is a very safe and well-tolerated medicine for children at the correct dose. However, like any medicine, some side effects can occur. The most important precaution is to avoid overdose.
Common Side Effects (Aam Nuksanat)
Calpol is almost side-effect-free at the correct dose. What can occur in rare cases:
- Nausea and upset — slightly more likely if given without food
- Mild stomach discomfort — generally mild and resolves on its own
- Diarrhoea — very rare
These side effects are generally mild and resolve on their own. If they continue, inform your doctor.
Uncommon Side Effects
- Skin rash or itching — may indicate paracetamol allergy
Serious Side Effects (Sanjeedah Nuksanat — Foran Doctor)
Allergic Reaction (Allergy)
Very rare but serious:
- Skin eruptions or urticaria (hives)
- Swelling of face, lips or throat (angioedema)
- Difficulty breathing — this may be anaphylaxis
If these symptoms appear: Stop Calpol immediately and seek emergency help.
Liver Damage (In Overdose)
Paracetamol overdose is the greatest danger to the liver:
- At the correct dose the liver remains completely safe
- In overdose — in the first 24 hours symptoms may seem mild (nausea, weakness) but the liver is being damaged internally
- In 2–3 days jaundice, severe abdominal pain, and acute liver failure can develop
- Antidote: N-Acetylcysteine — the sooner it is given the better
Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS)
Very rare — but a severe skin reaction. Blisters on the mouth, eyes, genitals. Immediate hospital admission required.
Overdose Warning (Bohat Zaroori)
| Dose | Risk |
|---|---|
| Recommended dose (15mg/kg) | Safe ✅ |
| 1.5× dose | Borderline — monitor |
| 2× dose or more | Emergency — see a doctor immediately |
Signs of excess dose may not appear at first — so do not wait. In Paracetamol overdose, immediately contact a doctor or emergency services.
When to See a Doctor (Kab Doctor Se Milna Zaroori Hai)
- Rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing — allergic reaction
- If an excessive dose has been given — even if the child has no symptoms
- Fever not controlled within 24 hours
- Fever above 39°C
- Confusion, extreme lethargy, or jaundice in the child
- Child under 3 months old
Drug Interactions (Dawaon ke sath reaction)
| Medicine | Effect |
|---|---|
| Other paracetamol medicines (cold syrups, combination medicines) | Risk of overdose — avoid |
| Warfarin (blood thinner) | Dose adjustment required |
| Alcohol | Increases liver damage risk |
Reporting Side Effects
If you notice any unexpected side effect, report it on the DRAP pharmacovigilance portal: https://www.dra.gov.pk/pharmacovigilance
The information in this guide is for educational purposes only. If you notice any side effect, contact your doctor or pharmacist.