What is Panadol used for? Understanding its key applications

October 6, 2025 •

4 min read

As one of the most widely used over-the-counter medications in the world, Panadol is primarily known for its dual action as an analgesic and antipyretic. The question of what is Panadol used for often arises for those seeking safe and effective relief from common ailments like mild pain and fever.

Quick Summary

Panadol is a brand name for the active ingredient paracetamol (acetaminophen), used to relieve mild-to-moderate pain and reduce fever. It is effective for headaches, muscle aches, and cold and flu symptoms but is not an anti-inflammatory drug. Safe administration is crucial to avoid serious liver damage.

Key Points

Panadol's Identity: Panadol is a brand name for the active ingredient paracetamol, which is called acetaminophen in the U.S. and Japan.
Relieves Pain and Fever: Its primary use is to treat mild-to-moderate pain (e.g., headaches, muscle aches, toothaches) and reduce fever.
Not an Anti-inflammatory: Unlike ibuprofen, Panadol does not significantly reduce inflammation, making it suitable for pain not associated with swelling.
Acts on the Brain: Panadol works by altering the body's perception of pain and regulating temperature within the central nervous system.
Overdose Risk: Taking more than the recommended amount, especially over a prolonged period, can cause serious and potentially fatal liver damage.
Safe Administration is Key: Always follow the administration instructions on the package, never exceed the maximum daily limit, and check with a healthcare provider if unsure.
Available in Combination Products: Panadol is often included in multi-symptom cold and flu products, so always check labels to avoid taking too much paracetamol.

What is Panadol (Paracetamol)?

Panadol is a widely recognized brand name for the drug paracetamol, which is known as acetaminophen in the United States and Japan. It is a non-opioid medication that is available without a prescription in many parts of the world. Unlike non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, Panadol works to relieve pain and reduce fever without targeting inflammation at the site of injury. This key difference makes it a suitable option for people who cannot tolerate NSAIDs due to stomach issues or other medical conditions.

The primary uses of Panadol

The main applications of Panadol revolve around its analgesic (pain-relieving) and antipyretic (fever-reducing) properties. It is an effective treatment for a variety of common conditions. Its effects typically begin within an hour and last for several hours.

Pain relief

Panadol is used for the temporary relief of mild-to-moderate pain. This includes a wide range of common aches and discomforts:

Headaches and Migraines: Panadol can provide relief for both regular tension headaches and acute migraines.
Muscular Aches: It is effective for relieving pain from musculoskeletal conditions and strains.
Backache and Joint Pain: While it does not treat inflammation, it can be useful for managing the pain associated with backache and osteoarthritis.
Dental Pain: Often recommended for toothache and pain following dental procedures.
Period Pain: Used to help ease menstrual cramps.
Post-Operative Pain: Can be included as a component of multimodal analgesia to help manage pain after surgery.

Fever reduction

In addition to relieving pain, Panadol is effective at reducing a high temperature (fever). It acts on the brain's thermoregulatory center in the hypothalamus to help reset the body's core temperature. It is a standard medication for reducing fever associated with colds, flu, and other illnesses.

Cold and flu symptoms

Panadol is a common ingredient in many over-the-counter cold and flu remedies. It helps alleviate the accompanying aches, pains, fever, and sore throat. For comprehensive symptom relief, it is often combined with other active ingredients, such as a decongestant or antihistamine.

How does Panadol work?

The exact mechanism by which paracetamol produces its effects is still under investigation, but it is primarily understood to have central actions within the brain and spinal cord. It is thought to block chemical messengers called prostaglandins that are responsible for signaling pain and regulating body temperature. By inhibiting the enzymes that produce these prostaglandins in the central nervous system, paracetamol helps to decrease the perception of pain and lower a fever.

Importantly, Panadol's mechanism differs from that of NSAIDs, which primarily inhibit prostaglandins in the peripheral nervous system (the area of the body affected by pain). This is why Panadol has minimal anti-inflammatory effects. The action is also thought to involve pathways related to the endocannabinoid system, adding another layer to its pain-relieving effects.

Panadol vs. Ibuprofen: A comparison

While both Panadol and ibuprofen are common pain relievers, they are fundamentally different medications suited for different purposes. The table below summarizes their key distinctions.


Feature	Panadol (Paracetamol/Acetaminophen)	Ibuprofen (NSAID)
Mechanism of Action	Primarily central; blocks pain signaling and temperature regulation in the brain.	Primarily peripheral; blocks enzymes that cause pain, fever, and inflammation.
Anti-Inflammatory Action	Minimal to none.	Strong anti-inflammatory properties.
Primary Uses	Mild to moderate pain (headaches, muscle aches), fever.	Mild to moderate pain (especially with inflammation like sprains or arthritis), fever.
Effectiveness for Pain	Very effective for non-inflammatory pain.	More effective for pain associated with inflammation.
Stomach Side Effects	Rare at recommended levels. Safer for those prone to ulcers or stomach irritation.	Higher risk of gastrointestinal issues, including ulcers and bleeding, especially with long-term use.
Other Cautions	Risk of liver damage from overdose.	Risk of kidney damage with prolonged use; should be avoided by some pregnant women and people with certain heart conditions or asthma.

Administration and safety information

It is crucial to follow the administration instructions on the product label to ensure safe use and avoid serious health risks, particularly liver damage from overdose. The appropriate amount can vary by product, as some are extra strength or contain additional ingredients.

General administration guidelines

Adults (16 and over): Follow the product instructions for the appropriate amount and frequency. Do not exceed the maximum amount in a 24-hour period.
Children: The appropriate amount is based on age and weight. Always use a product specifically formulated for children and follow the instructions on the package. Do not give more than the recommended frequency in 24 hours unless directed by a doctor.

Who should be cautious?

Certain individuals should consult a healthcare provider before taking Panadol, including those with:

Pre-existing liver or kidney problems.
A history of chronic alcohol consumption.
Allergies to paracetamol or other ingredients.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Panadol is often the preferred painkiller during pregnancy and breastfeeding, but it should still be taken at the lowest effective level for the shortest time possible, and a doctor should be consulted.

Conclusion

Panadol is a highly effective and safe medication for relieving mild-to-moderate pain and reducing fever when used as directed. Its primary applications include headaches, muscle aches, and discomfort from colds and flu. However, its lack of anti-inflammatory properties makes it less suitable for conditions involving inflammation compared to NSAIDs like ibuprofen. The most significant safety risk is liver damage from overdose, making it essential to strictly follow administration guidelines. By understanding the key uses and safety precautions of Panadol, individuals can use this common medication responsibly for effective relief.

Note: If your pain or fever persists or worsens, seek medical advice from a doctor or pharmacist. You can find more detailed information on acetaminophen, the active ingredient in Panadol, on the MedlinePlus Drug Information website.

Frequently Asked Questions

There is no difference in the active ingredient; Panadol is a brand name for paracetamol, which is the same drug as acetaminophen. The name used depends on the country. For example, 'acetaminophen' is the generic name used in the U.S. and Japan, while 'paracetamol' is used in Europe, Australia, and New Zealand.

Panadol is less effective for pain that is caused by inflammation. While it will provide some pain relief, an NSAID like ibuprofen, which specifically targets inflammation, would likely be more effective for a condition like a sprained ankle.

Panadol is generally considered the safest choice for pain relief during pregnancy and breastfeeding, though it should be taken at the lowest effective level for the shortest duration necessary. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.

For most adults, there is a maximum daily amount in 24 hours. The intervals between doses should also be considered. Exceeding this amount is very dangerous and can cause severe liver damage. Always check the product packaging or consult a healthcare professional for specific guidance.

Unlike NSAIDs such as ibuprofen and aspirin, Panadol does not carry a significant risk of causing stomach irritation or bleeding at recommended levels. It is often a safer option for individuals with sensitive stomachs or a history of ulcers.

You should not drink alcoholic beverages while taking Panadol, especially if you have liver problems or regularly consume large amounts of alcohol. Combining alcohol with Panadol increases the risk of liver damage.

Panadol typically begins to work within an hour of administration. Its effects usually last for several hours, providing temporary relief from pain and fever.