expergesic 500mg/15mg tablet - Paracetamol (500mg) + Pentazocine (15mg) medicine

Expergesic 500mg/15mg Tablet: Comprehensive Guide To Uses, Side Effects, And Safety

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🏭 Win-Medicare Pvt Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Oct 28, 2026
⚠️ Hepatotoxicity Risk 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Moderate
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Oct 28, 2026
🩺
Medically Fact-Checked & Clinically Verified by SaathiMed Clinical Review Board
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Slow, shallow, or difficulty breathing
  • Severe abdominal pain or vomiting blood
  • Yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine
  • Sudden swelling of face, lips, or throat
  • Seizures or severe confusion
  • Unusual bleeding or bruising
  • Decreased urine output

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is expergesic 500mg/15mg tablet used for?

This medicine is a prescription combination of Paracetamol 500 mg and Pentazocine 15 mg used for short-term relief of moderate to severe pain. It works by reducing pain signals in the brain. It can cause drowsiness and dependence, so it should be used exactly as prescribed and for no longer than recommended.

  • Generic Name: Paracetamol (500mg) + Pentazocine (15mg)
  • Manufacturer: Win-Medicare Pvt Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 expergesic 500mg/15mg tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा पैरासिटामोल 500 मिलीग्राम और पेंटाजोसिन 15 मिलीग्राम का संयोजन है। इसका उपयोग मध्यम से गंभीर दर्द के अल्पकालिक उपचार के लिए किया जाता है, जैसे सर्जरी के बाद का दर्द, चोट का दर्द, या मस्कुलोस्केलेटल दर्द। यह दर्द को कम करने और सूजन को कम करने में मदद करती है। यह दवा केवल डॉक्टर के पर्चे पर ही मिलती है और इसे डॉक्टर की सलाह के अनुसार ही लेना चाहिए।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में चक्कर आना, नींद आना, मतली, उल्टी, कब्ज, सिरदर्द और हल्का सिर घूमना शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में सांस लेने में कठिनाई, भ्रम, मतिभ्रम, पेट में तेज दर्द, और लीवर की क्षति के लक्षण जैसे त्वचा या आंखों का पीला पड़ना, गहरे रंग का मूत्र, या लगातार मतली शामिल हो सकते हैं। यदि आपको कोई भी गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव महसूस हो तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को अपने डॉक्टर के निर्देशानुसार ही लें। अनुशंसित खुराक या उपचार की अवधि से अधिक न लें। इस दवा को लेते समय शराब और अन्य केंद्रीय तंत्रिका तंत्र अवसादकों से बचें, क्योंकि इससे नींद और सांस की समस्या बढ़ सकती है। जब तक आपको पता न चले कि यह दवा आपको कैसे प्रभावित करती है, तब तक वाहन चलाने या भारी मशीनरी चलाने से बचें। यदि आपको लीवर या गुर्दे की बीमारी, सांस की समस्या, या नशे की लत का इतिहास है तो अपने डॉक्टर को बताएं। इस दवा को निर्धारित अवधि से अधिक समय तक न लें, क्योंकि इससे निर्भरता हो सकती है।

💡 Did You Know? The first generic medicine was introduced in India in 1970 after the Patents Act was amended.

💊 expergesic 500mg/15mg tablet Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Moderate to severe acute pain","description":"This medicine is used for short-term relief of moderate to severe pain, such as post-operative pain, dental pain, or pain from injuries.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Musculoskeletal pain","description":"It may be prescribed for acute musculoskeletal pain, such as back pain or muscle strains, when non-opioid analgesics are insufficient.","evidence":"Moderate"},{"condition":"Post-operative pain","description":"Used for managing pain after surgical procedures, often as part of a multimodal analgesia approach.","evidence":"Well-established"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Chronic pain","description":"Rarely used off-label for chronic pain conditions, but not recommended due to risk of dependence.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Moderate to severe acute pain

Also treats: Post-operative pain, Musculoskeletal pain, Dental pain

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Paracetamol (500mg) + Pentazocine (15mg)
Brand Nameexpergesic 500mg/15mg tablet
ManufacturerWin-Medicare Pvt Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassPAIN ANALGESICS
Action Class
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature (15-30°C) in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep in the original container.
Shelf Life24 months from the date of manufacture.
WHO GuidelineNot established from the available information.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Take this medicine with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.
2
Avoid alcohol completely while taking this medicine.
3
Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you.
4
Do not take more than the prescribed dose; overdose can cause severe liver damage.
5
Use this medicine for the shortest duration possible to minimize risk of dependence.
6
Report any unusual bleeding, bruising, or signs of infection to your doctor.
7
Do not stop this medicine abruptly after long-term use; consult your doctor for a tapering schedule.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Moderate to severe acute pain
This medicine is commonly prescribed for this.
Likely Use
❌
Mild headache
This medicine is not a first-line treatment for mild headache.
Not Primary
❌
Fever
This medicine is not a primary fever reducer; paracetamol alone is preferred.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionParacetamol is rapidly and almost completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. Pentazocine is also absorbed orally but undergoes significant first-pass metabolism, resulting in lower bioavailability compared to parenteral administration.
DistributionParacetamol distributes widely into body tissues, with a volume of distribution of about 0.9 L/kg. Pentazocine is highly lipophilic and distributes extensively into tissues, including the brain, with a volume of distribution of approximately 5 L/kg.
Protein BindingParacetamol is approximately 10-25% bound to plasma proteins. Pentazocine is about 60-70% bound to plasma proteins.
MetabolismParacetamol is metabolized primarily in the liver via glucuronidation and sulfation, with a small fraction metabolized by cytochrome P450 2E1 to a toxic intermediate (NAPQI) that is normally detoxified by glutathione. Pentazocine undergoes extensive hepatic metabolism, primarily by glucuronidation and oxidation, to inactive metabolites.
Half-LifeParacetamol elimination half-life is about 2-3 hours in adults. Pentazocine elimination half-life is approximately 2-3 hours.
ExcretionParacetamol metabolites are excreted primarily in the urine. Pentazocine metabolites are excreted mainly in the urine, with a small amount in feces.
BioavailabilityParacetamol oral bioavailability is about 80-100%. Pentazocine oral bioavailability is approximately 20-60% due to first-pass metabolism.
Onset of ActionOnset of analgesia for this combination is typically within 30-60 minutes after oral administration.
Peak Plasma TimeParacetamol peak plasma concentration occurs within 0.5-2 hours. Pentazocine peak plasma concentration occurs within 1-3 hours.
Duration of ActionThe duration of analgesia for this combination is approximately 4-6 hours.

How It Works

This medicine combines two analgesics with different mechanisms. Paracetamol reduces pain and fever by acting primarily in the central nervous system, inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis and modulating pain pathways. Pentazocine is a mixed opioid agonist-antagonist that binds to kappa opioid receptors (agonism) and sigma receptors, while weakly antagonizing mu receptors. This leads to altered perception of pain and emotional response to pain. The combination provides additive analgesia through complementary central mechanisms.

Mechanism Steps

1
Paracetamol central action: Paracetamol inhibits prostaglandin synthesis in the central nervous system, reducing pain perception and fever.
2
Pentazocine kappa agonism: Pentazocine activates kappa opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, producing analgesia and sedation.
3
Pentazocine mu antagonism: Pentazocine weakly blocks mu opioid receptors, which may limit its analgesic efficacy and reduce abuse potential compared to pure mu agonists.
4
Sigma receptor activation: Pentazocine also stimulates sigma receptors, which can cause psychotomimetic effects like hallucinations and dysphoria.

💡 How to Take expergesic 500mg/15mg tablet

Strength: Tablet containing Paracetamol 500 mg and Pentazocine 15 mg.

1Take this medicine orally with a full glass of water.
2Take with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.
3Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush or chew.
4Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
5Do not take more often than directed.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose of this medicine is one tablet orally every 4 to 6 hours as needed for pain. The maximum daily dose should not exceed 4 tablets in 24 hours. However, the exact dose and duration must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on the indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function, and response to treatment. Do not exceed the prescribed dose.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of this medicine, especially respiratory depression and sedation. Use with caution and start with a lower dose. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician.
Renal ImpairmentUse with caution in patients with renal impairment. Dose adjustment may be necessary based on creatinine clearance. Consult a doctor for individualized dosing.
Hepatic ImpairmentUse with caution in patients with hepatic impairment. Paracetamol dose should be reduced or avoided in severe liver disease. Consult a doctor for individualized dosing.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum daily dose of this medicine is 4 tablets in 24 hours. Do not exceed this dose. The maximum daily dose of paracetamol should not exceed 4000 mg from all sources.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Take with meals or snacks
Reduces stomach upset and nausea.
Alcohol
Avoid
Increases risk of liver toxicity and sedation.
High-fat meals
May delay absorption
Fatty foods can slow the onset of pain relief.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of expergesic 500mg/15mg tablet

✅ Common Side Effects

Dizziness (Common (10-20%))
Avoid driving or operating machinery. Usually resolves with continued use.
Drowsiness (Common (10-20%))
Rest if needed. Avoid alcohol and other sedatives.
Nausea (Common (5-10%))
Take with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.
Vomiting (Common (5-10%))
Stay hydrated. Consult doctor if persistent.
Constipation (Common (5-10%))
Increase fiber and fluid intake. Consult doctor if severe.
Headache (Common (5-10%))
Usually resolves on its own. Consult doctor if persistent.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Respiratory depression (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience slow, shallow breathing or difficulty breathing.
Severe allergic reaction (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek emergency care if you notice rash, itching, swelling of face, lips, or throat, or difficulty breathing.
Liver injury (Rare (<0.1%))
Report yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, or persistent nausea to your doctor immediately.
Seizures (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if seizures occur.
Dependence and withdrawal (Uncommon (1-10%) with prolonged use)
Do not stop abruptly after long-term use. Consult your doctor for a tapering schedule.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Hallucinations
Report to your doctor immediately.
Confusion
Seek medical advice if confusion occurs.
Blood dyscrasias
Report unusual bleeding, bruising, or infections to your doctor.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
MAOIs Major
Alcohol Major
Benzodiazepines Major
Warfarin Moderate
Carbamazepine Moderate
Phenytoin Moderate
Rifampicin Moderate
Anticholinergics Moderate
Metoclopramide Minor
Cholestyramine Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
  • Alcohol
  • Other CNS depressants (e.g., benzodiazepines, opioids, antihistamines)

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Warfarin
  • Carbamazepine, phenytoin, rifampicin
  • Anticholinergics

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol should be completely avoided while taking this medicine. Alcohol increases the risk of liver damage from paracetamol and enhances the sedative and respiratory depressant effects of pentazocine, which can be dangerous.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Known hypersensitivity to paracetamol or pentazocine","Severe respiratory depression or acute severe asthma","Severe liver impairment","Recent use of monoamine oxidase inhibitors (within 14 days)","Head injury or increased intracranial pressure","Acute alcoholism or delirium tremens"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["This medicine can cause respiratory depression. Use with caution in patients with respiratory conditions.","May cause drowsiness and dizziness. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.","Do not use for longer than prescribed due to risk of dependence and withdrawal.","Avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants.","Use with caution in elderly, debilitated, or patients with liver or kidney disease.","Do not exceed the recommended dose of paracetamol; overdose can cause severe liver damage.","Pentazocine can cause psychotomimetic effects such as hallucinations and confusion.","Not recommended for children under 12 years unless directed by a doctor."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Paracetamol is considered safe during breastfeeding. Pentazocine may pass into breast milk and could cause sedation or respiratory depression in the infant. Consult your doctor before using this medicine while breastfeeding.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose of this medicine can cause severe respiratory depression, liver toxicity from paracetamol, and potentially fatal outcomes. Seek emergency medical attention immediately. Treatment may include administration of naloxone for opioid effects and N-acetylcysteine for paracetamol toxicity. Supportive care and monitoring of vital signs and liver function are essential.

⏰ Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not exceed the recommended dose or duration of treatment. Avoid alcohol and other central nervous system depressants while taking this medicine, as they can increase drowsiness and respiratory depression. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you. Inform your doctor if you have a history of liver or kidney disease, breathing problems, or substance abuse. Do not use this medicine for longer than prescribed, as it can lead to dependence. Keep this medicine out of reach of children. Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not share this medicine with others, even if they have similar symptoms.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients are more sensitive to the sedative and respiratory depressant effects of pentazocine. They may also have reduced liver and kidney function, increasing the risk of toxicity. Use with caution, start with a lower dose, and monitor closely.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before taking this medicine. Paracetamol is generally considered safe, but pentazocine may pose risks to the fetus, especially near term. Discuss alternative pain management options.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

This medicine may be prescribed for post-operative pain. It should be used for the shortest duration possible. Inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist about all medications you are taking. Monitor for respiratory depression and other side effects.

🦷 Dental Procedures

This medicine may be used for dental pain, but it is not a substitute for dental treatment. Inform your dentist if you are taking this medicine, as it may interact with anesthetics or other medications used during dental procedures.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on joints and muscles.
🥗
Engage in regular low-impact exercise like walking or swimming, as tolerated.
😴
Practice good posture and ergonomics to prevent pain.
💧
Include anti-inflammatory foods in your diet, such as fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 rich fish.
🧘
Get adequate sleep to aid recovery and pain management.
🌞
Avoid smoking and limit alcohol intake.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

While taking this medicine, you may experience drowsiness and dizziness. Avoid strenuous exercise or activities that require alertness until you know how the medicine affects you. Gentle stretching and walking may be beneficial, but consult your doctor before starting any exercise program.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Include omega-3 rich foods like salmon, flaxseeds, and walnuts.
Reduce processed food and sugar intake.
Stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
Avoid alcohol completely.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and difficulty concentrating, which may affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid these activities until you know how the medicine affects you. It may also cause constipation, which can be managed with diet and fluids. Discuss with your employer if your job requires alertness.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Stop taking this medicine when your pain is no longer severe enough to require it, or as directed by your doctor. Do not stop abruptly after long-term use without consulting your doctor, as withdrawal symptoms may occur. If you experience serious side effects, seek medical attention immediately.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine can lead to dependence, withdrawal symptoms, and tolerance. It may also cause chronic constipation, liver damage from paracetamol, and hormonal changes. Regular monitoring of liver and kidney function is advised if prolonged use is necessary. It is not recommended for chronic pain management.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Physical therapy

Can complement medicine for chronic pain and improve function.

Evidence: Well-established
Non-opioid analgesics

NSAIDs or paracetamol alone may be sufficient for mild to moderate pain.

Evidence: Well-established
Mind-body techniques

Relaxation, meditation, and cognitive behavioral therapy can help manage pain.

Evidence: Moderate

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

There are no known interactions between this medicine and vaccines. However, if you are scheduled for vaccination, inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (15-30°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless specified

✅ DO

Keep in original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight

❌ DON'T

Do not store in bathroom cabinet

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

When traveling, carry this medicine in its original packaging along with a copy of your prescription. Check local regulations regarding opioid medications, as some countries have strict laws. Store at room temperature and protect from moisture. If crossing time zones, adjust dosing intervals as advised by your doctor. Never share this medicine with others.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 45-year-old man with severe back pain after a fall
He was prescribed this medicine for short-term pain relief. He took it as directed with food and avoided alcohol. His pain improved significantly within a few days, and he was able to return to normal activities. He was advised not to use it for more than a week.
💡 Lesson: Taking this medicine exactly as prescribed and for a short duration helps manage pain safely while minimizing risks.
👤 A 60-year-old woman with post-operative knee pain
She was given this medicine after knee replacement surgery. She experienced dizziness initially but it subsided after a few doses. She was monitored for respiratory depression and liver function. She used it for 5 days and then switched to a milder painkiller.
💡 Lesson: Close monitoring and short-term use are essential, especially in elderly patients, to prevent serious side effects.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: This medicine usually starts relieving pain within 30 to 60 minutes after taking it orally.

Q: How long can I take this medicine?

A: This medicine is intended for short-term use only, typically for a few days to a week. Prolonged use can lead to dependence and other serious side effects. Follow your doctor's instructions.

Q: Is this medicine addictive?

A: Yes, pentazocine, one of the ingredients, can cause dependence and withdrawal symptoms with prolonged use. It should be used only as prescribed and for the shortest duration possible.

Q: Can I take this medicine with alcohol?

A: No, alcohol should be completely avoided while taking this medicine as it increases the risk of liver damage and dangerous sedation.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my kidney function?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?

🔄 Substitutes for expergesic 500mg/15mg tablet

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: This medicine is safe for long-term use.
    Fact: This medicine is intended for short-term use only. Prolonged use can lead to dependence and other serious side effects.
  • Myth: It is okay to take extra doses if pain is severe.
    Fact: Taking more than the prescribed dose can cause severe liver damage and respiratory depression. Always follow your doctor's instructions.
  • Myth: This medicine can be taken with alcohol.
    Fact: Alcohol should be completely avoided as it increases the risk of liver toxicity and dangerous sedation.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Paracetamol + Pentazocine combination tablets from other manufacturers

Brand Alternatives

  • Expergesic 500mg/15mg tablet

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Paracetamol + Pentazocine","composition":"Paracetamol 500mg + Pentazocine 15mg","onset":"30-60 minutes","duration":"4-6 hours","notes":"Opioid combination, risk of dependence"},{"medicine":"Paracetamol + Tramadol","composition":"Paracetamol 325mg + Tramadol 37.5mg","onset":"30-60 minutes","duration":"4-6 hours","notes":"Opioid combination, risk of dependence"},{"medicine":"Paracetamol + Codeine","composition":"Paracetamol 500mg + Codeine 30mg","onset":"30-60 minutes","duration":"4-6 hours","notes":"Opioid combination, risk of dependence"}]

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