Overview
Calpol 500 is a tablet that contains acetaminophen 500mg (called paracetamol outside the US). It is made by GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals Ltd. Acetaminophen is a pain reliever and fever reducer — the same active ingredient as Tylenol and Panadol.
- Acetaminophen 500mg per tablet (extra strength)
- Generic version of Tylenol and Panadol
- Relieves minor aches and pains and reduces fever
- Adults: 2 tablets every 6 hours, no more than 6 in 24 hours
Uses
According to the official US Drug Facts label, acetaminophen 500mg temporarily relieves minor aches and pains due to:
- Headache
- The common cold
- Backache
- Minor pain of arthritis
- Toothache
- Muscular aches
- Premenstrual and menstrual cramps
It also temporarily reduces fever. See more pain relievers.
How it works
Acetaminophen is a pain reliever (analgesic) and fever reducer (antipyretic). Unlike NSAIDs such as ibuprofen or aspirin, it is not an anti-inflammatory medicine.
Dosage
Do not take more than directed. The directions on the official label are:
- Adults and children 12 years and over: take 2 tablets every 6 hours while symptoms last.
- Do not take more than 6 tablets in 24 hours, unless directed by a doctor.
- Do not use for more than 10 days unless directed by a doctor.
- Children under 12 years: ask a doctor.
Safety warning
- Liver warning: this product contains acetaminophen. Severe liver damage may occur if you take more than 4,000mg of acetaminophen in 24 hours, take it with other drugs containing acetaminophen, or have 3 or more alcoholic drinks every day while using it.
- Allergy alert: acetaminophen may cause severe skin reactions — skin reddening, blisters or rash. If a skin reaction occurs, stop use and seek medical help right away.
- Do not use with any other drug containing acetaminophen (prescription or non-prescription), or if you are allergic to acetaminophen.
- Ask a doctor before use if you have liver disease, or if you take the blood thinner warfarin.
- Stop and ask a doctor if pain gets worse or lasts more than 10 days, fever gets worse or lasts more than 3 days, new symptoms occur, or redness or swelling is present.
- Overdose: get medical help or call Poison Control (1-800-222-1222) right away, even if you do not notice any signs or symptoms.
Side effects
Used as directed, acetaminophen is usually well tolerated. The label warns about two serious risks:
- Liver damage — mainly from taking too much, combining acetaminophen products, or daily heavy drinking.
- Severe skin reactions — skin reddening, blisters or rash. Stop and get medical help right away.
Interactions
- Other medicines containing acetaminophen (including many cold, flu and sleep products): do not take together.
- Warfarin (blood thinner): ask a doctor or pharmacist before use.
- Alcohol: 3 or more drinks every day raises the risk of liver damage.
If you are not sure whether a medicine contains acetaminophen, ask a doctor or pharmacist.
Pregnancy & breastfeeding
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, ask a health professional before use.
Storage
Store between 20–25°C (68–77°F). Keep out of the reach of children.
Pack sizes & prices
| Pack | Price per tablet | Pack price |
|---|---|---|
| 60 Tablets | $1.25 | $75.00 |
| 120 Tablets | $1.15 | $138.00 |
| 180 Tablets | $1.00 | $180.00 |
| 360 Tablets | $0.82 | $295.20 |
See our shipping policy for delivery times and costs, and how ordering works. Browse all medications.
FAQs
Is Calpol 500 the same as Tylenol?
Both contain acetaminophen as the active ingredient. Calpol 500 has 500mg per tablet, the same strength as Tylenol Extra Strength. Paracetamol is the name used outside the US for acetaminophen.
How many Calpol 500 tablets can I take a day?
Adults and children 12 years and over: take 2 tablets every 6 hours while symptoms last. Do not take more than 6 tablets in 24 hours unless a doctor tells you to.
How long can I take it?
Do not use it for more than 10 days for pain or more than 3 days for fever unless a doctor tells you to. Stop and see a doctor if pain or fever gets worse or new symptoms appear.
Can I take it with alcohol?
Severe liver damage may occur if you have 3 or more alcoholic drinks every day while using acetaminophen. Ask your doctor first if you drink regularly.
Can I take it with cold and flu medicines?
Not if they also contain acetaminophen. Many cold, flu and sleep products do. If you are not sure, ask a doctor or pharmacist.
Can children take Calpol 500?
Children under 12 years should not take it unless a doctor says so.
Source: US Drug Facts label for acetaminophen 500 mg tablets (DailyMed, US National Library of Medicine). Tylenol and Panadol are trademarks of their owners. This page is for information only and does not replace advice from your doctor or pharmacist.
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