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Paracetamol (lat. Paracetamolum) is a drug, analgesic and antipyretic from the anilide group, has an antipyretic effect. In some Western countries, it is known as acetaminophen (English Acetaminophen, APAP). The name is formed as an abbreviation of the full name in chemical nomenclature: para-acetylaminophenol.
It is a widespread central non-narcotic analgesic, has rather weak anti-inflammatory properties. However, when taken in large doses, it can cause disturbances in the functioning of the liver, circulatory system and kidneys. The risk of violations of the work of these organs and systems increases with the simultaneous use of alcohol, therefore, people who drink alcohol are recommended to use a reduced dose of paracetamol.
Paracetamol is not a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, its mechanism of action is fundamentally different. Unlike ibuprofen, aspirin and other NSAIDs, paracetamol acts on the nervous system and belongs to a different classification group.
