Table of Contents
- Introduction
- What is Paracetamol?
- Uses and Indications
- Mechanism of Action
- Dosage Forms Available in India
- Dosage Guidelines
- Side Effects and Warnings
- Top Paracetamol Brands in India (2025) with MRP
- Tablet Formulations
- Syrup/Suspension Formulations
- Injectable Forms
- Pediatric Drops
- How to Choose the Right Paracetamol Brand
- Paracetamol vs Other Pain Relievers
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
- Introduction
Paracetamol, also known as acetaminophen, is one of the most widely used over-the-counter (OTC) medications in India and globally. It serves as a cornerstone in the management of fever and mild to moderate pain. Due to its high demand and excellent safety profile, it is available under hundreds of brand names across the Indian pharmaceutical market. This article provides a comprehensive list of paracetamol brand names along with their MRP (Maximum Retail Price) as per 2025, helping consumers and healthcare professionals make informed choices.
- What is Paracetamol?
Paracetamol is a widely used antipyretic (fever reducer) and analgesic (pain reliever). It is available as a standalone drug or in combination with other agents like caffeine, ibuprofen, or cold medications. It is considered safe when used at recommended doses and has minimal side effects compared to NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs).
- Uses and Indications
Paracetamol is commonly prescribed or used for the following conditions:
- Fever due to viral or bacterial infections
- Headaches and migraines
- Muscle aches
- Menstrual cramps
- Toothaches
- Post-vaccination fever in children and adults
- Osteoarthritis and other mild arthritic pains
- Mechanism of Action
Paracetamol works by inhibiting the enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX), specifically in the brain. This enzyme is responsible for the synthesis of prostaglandins, which mediate pain and fever. Unlike NSAIDs, paracetamol has little anti-inflammatory activity and does not irritate the gastric mucosa, making it a safer alternative for many people.
- Dosage Forms Available in India
Paracetamol is available in various dosage forms to cater to different age groups and medical needs:
- Tablets (Regular, Dispersible, Extended-release)
- Syrups/Suspensions
- Pediatric Drops
- Effervescent Tablets
- Injectables
- Suppositories (less common in India)
- Dosage Guidelines
For Adults:
- 500 mg to 1000 mg every 4 to 6 hours
- Maximum Daily Dose: Not to exceed 4000 mg
For Children:
- 10-15 mg/kg body weight every 4 to 6 hours
- Maximum 5 doses in 24 hours
- Pediatric forms like syrups and drops should be used based on weight/age
Always consult a healthcare provider for precise dosing.
- Side Effects and Warnings
Paracetamol is generally well tolerated, but overuse or high doses can lead to:
- Liver damage (hepatotoxicity)
- Skin rashes or allergic reactions
- Nausea or abdominal discomfort
- Rare: Kidney damage or low blood count
Precautions:
- Avoid alcohol during paracetamol use
- Use cautiously in patients with liver or kidney disorders
- Do not combine multiple paracetamol-containing products
- Top Paracetamol Brands in India (2025) with MRP
Below is a list of the most popular paracetamol brands in India as of 2025, along with their dosage strength and MRP.
Tablet Formulations
Brand Name | Strength | Pack Size | MRP (INR) | Manufacturer |
Crocin Advance | 500 mg | 15 tabs | ₹32.00 | GSK Pharmaceuticals |
Calpol | 500 mg | 15 tabs | ₹31.50 | GSK Pharmaceuticals |
Dolo 650 | 650 mg | 15 tabs | ₹39.75 | Micro Labs |
T-98 Tablet | 500 mg | 10 tabs | ₹20.00 | Apex Laboratories |
Pyrigesic Tablet | 650 mg | 10 tabs | ₹25.00 | East India Pharma |
Pacimol 500 | 500 mg | 15 tabs | ₹28.50 | Ipca Laboratories |
Metacin | 500 mg | 15 tabs | ₹30.00 | GlaxoSmithKline |
Febrex Plus* | 500 mg + other | 10 tabs | ₹45.00 | Indoco Remedies |
*Combination with other agents like phenylephrine, caffeine, etc.
Syrup/Suspension Formulations
Brand Name | Strength | Pack Size | MRP (INR) | Manufacturer |
Calpol Suspension | 250 mg/5ml | 60 ml | ₹37.50 | GSK Pharmaceuticals |
Crocin Syrup | 120 mg/5ml | 60 ml | ₹36.00 | GSK |
Dolo Suspension | 250 mg/5ml | 60 ml | ₹38.00 | Micro Labs |
T-98 Syrup | 250 mg/5ml | 60 ml | ₹34.00 | Apex Laboratories |
P-500 Syrup | 250 mg/5ml | 60 ml | ₹33.00 | Cipla Ltd. |
Injectable Forms
Brand Name | Strength | Pack Size | MRP (INR) | Manufacturer |
Paracetamol Inj IP | 150 mg/ml | 2 ml amp | ₹22.00 | Neon Labs |
Dolo Injection | 150 mg/ml | 2 ml amp | ₹23.00 | Micro Labs |
Calpol Injection | 10 mg/ml | 100 ml | ₹60.00 | GSK |
Pediatric Drops
Brand Name | Strength | Pack Size | MRP (INR) | Manufacturer |
Calpol Drops | 100 mg/ml | 15 ml | ₹48.00 | GSK Pharmaceuticals |
Crocin Drops | 100 mg/ml | 15 ml | ₹47.50 | GSK |
Dolo Drops | 100 mg/ml | 15 ml | ₹49.00 | Micro Labs |
T-98 Drops | 100 mg/ml | 15 ml | ₹45.00 | Apex Laboratories |
- How to Choose the Right Paracetamol Brand
Here are a few tips to help you choose the best paracetamol brand:
- Check for dosage strength appropriate for age and symptoms
- Choose a trusted manufacturer for quality assurance
- Look for dispersible or syrup forms for children
- If cost is a concern, generic brands often offer the same effectiveness at a lower price
- Always ensure the packaging is intact and check the expiry date
- Paracetamol vs Other Pain Relievers
Feature | Paracetamol | Ibuprofen | Aspirin |
Pain Relief | ✓✓✓ | ✓✓✓✓ | ✓✓✓ |
Fever Reduction | ✓✓✓✓ | ✓✓✓ | ✓✓✓ |
Anti-inflammatory | ✗ | ✓✓✓✓ | ✓✓✓ |
Stomach Friendly | ✓✓✓✓ | ✗ | ✗ |
Safe in Pregnancy | ✓ (with advice) | ✗ | ✗ |
Paracetamol is often preferred in populations like children, pregnant women, and elderly patients due to its mild side-effect profile.
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I take paracetamol on an empty stomach?
Yes, it is safe to take paracetamol on an empty stomach.
Q2: Can I take paracetamol with other medications?
It depends. Avoid other medications that contain paracetamol to prevent overdose. Consult a doctor if you’re taking blood thinners or anti-epileptic drugs.
Q3: Is it safe to give paracetamol to infants?
Yes, but only in appropriate pediatric doses as per the doctor’s recommendation.
Q4: What is the maximum safe dose of paracetamol for adults?
Do not exceed 4000 mg/day. Overdosing can lead to liver damage.
Q5: Can paracetamol cause liver damage?
Yes, especially in high doses or when combined with alcohol.
- Conclusion
Paracetamol remains a go-to medication for fever and mild pain relief due to its affordability, safety, and availability in numerous forms. With hundreds of brands in the Indian market, it’s essential to know which brand to choose and what price to expect in 2025. Always follow dosage recommendations, consult a healthcare provider when in doubt, and choose quality over cost where possible.