macfast 500 tablet - Paracetamol (500mg) medicine

Macfast 500 Tablet: Complete Medicine Guide

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🏭 Macleods Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Sep 24, 2026
⚠️ Hepatotoxicity Risk 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
12 min read
Evidence: Well-established
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Sep 24, 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
  • Severe abdominal pain or tenderness
  • Dark urine or pale stools
  • Blood in vomit or black, tarry stools
  • Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Difficulty breathing or swallowing
  • Severe skin rash with blistering or peeling
  • Unusual bleeding or bruising
  • Decreased urine output
  • Persistent high fever not responding to medicine

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is macfast 500 tablet used for?

This medicine contains paracetamol 500 mg, used to relieve mild to moderate pain and reduce fever. It works by blocking pain signals in the brain and lowering fever. The usual adult dose is 1 to 2 tablets every 4 to 6 hours, not exceeding 8 tablets in 24 hours. It is generally safe when taken as directed, but overdose can cause serious liver damage.

  • Generic Name: Paracetamol (500mg)
  • Manufacturer: Macleods Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 macfast 500 tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा पैरासिटामोल 500 मिलीग्राम की टैबलेट है, जिसका उपयोग हल्के से मध्यम दर्द और बुखार को कम करने के लिए किया जाता है। यह सिरदर्द, दांत दर्द, मासिक धर्म के दर्द, मांसपेशियों के दर्द, पीठ दर्द और बुखार में राहत देती है। यह दवा दर्द के संकेतों को मस्तिष्क में ब्लॉक करके और शरीर के तापमान को नियंत्रित करके काम करती है। इसे डॉक्टर की सलाह के अनुसार ही लें।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में जी मिचलाना, पेट में असहजता और हल्के दाने शामिल हो सकते हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं, लेकिन त्वचा पर गंभीर प्रतिक्रियाएं, यकृत की क्षति और रक्त विकार हो सकते हैं। यदि आपको कोई असामान्य लक्षण दिखे तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें। 24 घंटे में 4000 मिलीग्राम से अधिक न लें। शराब का सेवन न करें क्योंकि इससे यकृत को नुकसान का खतरा बढ़ता है। अन्य दवाओं में पैरासिटामोल की मात्रा जांचें ताकि अधिक मात्रा न हो जाए। यकृत या गुर्दे की बीमारी, गर्भावस्था या स्तनपान के दौरान डॉक्टर से सलाह लें। बुखार के लिए 3 दिन से अधिक और दर्द के लिए 10 दिन से अधिक बिना सलाह के न लें।

💡 Did You Know? India is the largest provider of generic medicines globally, supplying over 50% of global vaccine demand.

💊 macfast 500 tablet Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Mild to moderate pain","description":"Relieves headaches, toothaches, menstrual cramps, muscle aches, and back pain by acting on the central nervous system.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Fever","description":"Reduces elevated body temperature by acting on the hypothalamic heat-regulating centre.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Osteoarthritis pain","description":"Provides symptomatic relief of mild to moderate pain associated with osteoarthritis.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Post-vaccination fever and pain","description":"Used to manage fever and local pain after vaccinations.","evidence":"Well-established"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Migraine","description":"Sometimes used as part of combination therapy for acute migraine attacks, though not a first-line specific treatment.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Dysmenorrhea","description":"Commonly used for menstrual pain, though NSAIDs are often preferred for their anti-inflammatory action.","evidence":"Moderate"}]

Primary treatment for: Pain and fever

Also treats: Headache, Toothache, Menstrual cramps, Muscle aches, Back pain, Osteoarthritis

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Paracetamol (500mg)
Brand Namemacfast 500 tablet
ManufacturerMacleods Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassPAIN ANALGESICS
Action ClassAnalgesic & Antipyretic-PCM
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Keep away from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight. Do not refrigerate unless specified. Keep in the original container, tightly closed.
Shelf LifeTypically 24 to 36 months from the date of manufacture, depending on the manufacturer. Check the expiry date on the pack.
WHO GuidelineParacetamol is included in the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines as a basic analgesic and antipyretic. It is recommended for the relief of mild to moderate pain and fever.
ICMR GuidelineThe Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) recognizes paracetamol as a first-line analgesic and antipyretic for mild to moderate pain and fever. It is recommended for use in appropriate doses with caution in liver disease.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Always take this medicine with a full glass of water to ensure proper swallowing and absorption.
2
Take this medicine with food or milk if it upsets your stomach.
3
Never exceed the maximum daily dose of 4000 mg (8 tablets of 500 mg) in 24 hours.
4
Avoid alcohol completely while taking this medicine to prevent liver damage.
5
Check all other medicines, including cold and flu remedies, for paracetamol content to avoid accidental overdose.
6
If you are taking warfarin, inform your doctor because paracetamol can increase the risk of bleeding.
7
Consult your doctor if pain or fever persists beyond 3 days for fever or 10 days for pain.
8
Keep this medicine out of reach of children and store it in a cool, dry place.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

Headache
This medicine is commonly used for mild to moderate headache.
Likely Use
Fever
This medicine is commonly used to reduce fever.
Likely Use
Toothache
This medicine provides temporary relief from toothache.
Likely Use
Muscle ache
This medicine helps relieve muscle pain.
Likely Use
Severe abdominal pain
This medicine is not appropriate for severe abdominal pain; seek medical attention.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionThis medicine is rapidly and almost completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. The rate of absorption depends on the gastric emptying time; food may delay absorption slightly but does not significantly reduce the total amount absorbed.
DistributionThis medicine is distributed widely throughout most body tissues. It crosses the placenta and is excreted in breast milk in small amounts. Its volume of distribution is approximately 0.8 to 1.0 L/kg.
Protein BindingThis medicine is only minimally bound to plasma proteins, approximately 10 to 25 percent.
MetabolismThis medicine is metabolized primarily in the liver through three pathways: glucuronidation, sulfation, and oxidation via the cytochrome P450 enzyme CYP2E1. The oxidation pathway produces a small amount of a toxic intermediate called N-acetyl-p-benzoquinone imine (NAPQI), which is normally detoxified by glutathione. In overdose, glutathione stores are depleted, leading to liver damage.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of this medicine is typically 2 to 3 hours in healthy adults, but it may be prolonged in patients with liver disease or after overdose.
ExcretionThis medicine and its metabolites are excreted primarily in the urine. About 90 percent of a therapeutic dose is excreted within 24 hours, mainly as glucuronide and sulfate conjugates.
BioavailabilityThe oral bioavailability of this medicine is approximately 80 to 100 percent, although it may be slightly reduced when taken with food.
Onset of ActionPain relief usually begins within 30 to 60 minutes after oral administration. Fever reduction typically starts within 30 to 60 minutes.
Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma concentrations are reached within 30 to 60 minutes after oral administration.
Duration of ActionThe analgesic and antipyretic effects of this medicine last for about 4 to 6 hours.

How It Works

This medicine works mainly in the central nervous system. It inhibits the enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX) in the brain and spinal cord, which reduces the production of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are chemicals that sensitize nerve endings to pain and also raise body temperature during fever. By blocking prostaglandin synthesis, this medicine increases the pain threshold and helps reset the body's thermostat to normal. Unlike non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), it has little anti-inflammatory action in peripheral tissues and does not irritate the stomach lining or affect blood clotting significantly.

Mechanism Steps

1
Inhibition of central cyclooxygenase: This medicine inhibits the COX enzyme primarily in the central nervous system, reducing prostaglandin synthesis.
2
Reduced prostaglandin levels: Lower prostaglandin levels decrease sensitization of pain receptors and lower the set-point of the hypothalamic thermostat.
3
Analgesic and antipyretic effects: The result is relief from pain and reduction of fever without significant anti-inflammatory or antiplatelet effects.

💡 How to Take macfast 500 tablet

Strength: 500 mg immediate-release tablet

1Take this medicine by mouth with a full glass of water.
2Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush or chew unless advised by your doctor.
3Take it with or without food, but taking it with food may reduce stomach upset.
4Follow the dose and frequency exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
5Do not take more than the recommended maximum daily dose.
6If you are taking other medicines, check for paracetamol content to avoid double dosing.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageFor adults and children above 12 years, the usual dose is 500 mg to 1000 mg (1 to 2 tablets) every 4 to 6 hours as needed for pain or fever. Do not exceed 4000 mg (8 tablets of 500 mg) in 24 hours. The dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. For short-term use only; consult a doctor if symptoms persist.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information for this 500 mg tablet. Consult a pediatrician for appropriate dosing in children.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may be more susceptible to the side effects of this medicine, especially liver and kidney effects. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration. Dose adjustment may be needed based on liver and kidney function. Consult a doctor for guidance.
Renal ImpairmentIn patients with severe kidney impairment (creatinine clearance less than 30 mL/min), the dosing interval should be increased to every 6 to 8 hours. Consult a doctor for dose adjustment.
Hepatic ImpairmentIn patients with mild to moderate liver impairment, the dose should be reduced or the dosing interval increased. In severe liver disease, this medicine is contraindicated. Consult a doctor for guidance.
Maximum Daily Dose4000 mg (8 tablets of 500 mg) in 24 hours for adults. Do not exceed this dose.

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 damage.
High-carbohydrate meal
May delay absorption
Food can slow the rate of absorption, but total absorption is not significantly affected.

⏰ 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 macfast 500 tablet

✅ Common Side Effects

Nausea (Common (1-10%))
Take with food or milk to reduce stomach upset. If nausea persists, consult your doctor.
Stomach discomfort (Common (1-10%))
Take with a meal or snack. Avoid taking on an empty stomach.
Mild rash (Uncommon (0.1-1%))
Stop the medicine and consult your doctor if rash develops.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Severe skin reactions (Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you notice blistering, peeling skin, or sores in the mouth or eyes.
Liver injury (Rare (<0.1%) at recommended doses; higher with overdose)
Seek immediate medical help if you experience yellowing of eyes or skin, dark urine, or severe abdominal pain.
Blood disorders (thrombocytopenia, agranulocytosis) (Very rare (<0.01%))
Report unusual bruising, bleeding, or signs of infection to your doctor immediately.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Anaphylaxis
Seek emergency medical care if you experience swelling of face, lips, throat, or difficulty breathing.
Acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis
Stop the medicine and seek immediate medical attention if you develop widespread pustular rash.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Warfarin Major
Alcohol Major
Carbamazepine Moderate
Phenytoin Moderate
Rifampicin Moderate
Isoniazid Moderate
Cholestyramine Minor
Metoclopramide Minor
Other paracetamol-containing products Major

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Warfarin
  • Alcohol

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Carbamazepine, phenytoin, rifampicin
  • Isoniazid

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Avoid consuming alcohol while taking this medicine. Alcohol increases the risk of liver damage, especially with regular or high-dose use of paracetamol. If you consume alcohol regularly, consult your doctor before taking this medicine.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Known hypersensitivity or allergy to paracetamol","Severe liver disease or active liver failure","Severe kidney impairment (use with caution)","Chronic alcohol abuse (unless approved by a doctor)"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["Do not exceed the maximum daily dose of 4000 mg (8 tablets of 500 mg) in 24 hours.","Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine.","Check all other medicines for paracetamol content to avoid accidental overdose.","Use with caution in patients with liver or kidney disease.","Consult a doctor if symptoms persist beyond 3 days for fever or 10 days for pain.","Stop the medicine and seek medical help if you develop a rash or any signs of an allergic reaction.","Keep out of reach of children."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Paracetamol is excreted in breast milk in small amounts and is generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. It is often the analgesic of choice during lactation. Consult your doctor if you have any concerns.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose of this medicine can cause severe liver damage, which may be delayed and life-threatening. Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite, but these may not appear immediately. If you suspect an overdose, seek emergency medical care immediately, even if you feel well. The antidote, N-acetylcysteine, is most effective when given within 8 to 10 hours of overdose. Do not wait for symptoms to appear.

⏰ 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

Always take this medicine exactly as directed by your doctor or as written on the label. Do not take more than the maximum daily dose of 4000 mg (8 tablets of 500 mg) in 24 hours. Avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medicine because it increases the risk of liver damage. Check all other medicines you are taking for paracetamol content to prevent accidental overdose. If you have liver or kidney disease, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before using this medicine. Do not use this medicine for more than 3 days for fever or 10 days for pain without medical advice. Keep this medicine out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature, away from moisture and direct sunlight. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but skip it if it is almost time for the next dose. Do not double the dose to catch up.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of this medicine, especially liver and kidney effects. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration. Dose adjustment may be needed based on liver and kidney function. Consult a doctor for guidance.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before taking this medicine. Paracetamol is generally considered safe during pregnancy when used at recommended doses for short periods, but it should be used only when clearly needed.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

This medicine may be used for post-surgical pain and fever under medical supervision. Follow your surgeon's instructions regarding dose and duration. Do not exceed the recommended dose.

🦷 Dental Procedures

This medicine can be used for pain relief after dental procedures such as tooth extraction. It is often recommended for mild to moderate dental pain. Consult your dentist for appropriate use.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on your joints and muscles.
🥗
Stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
😴
Get adequate rest and sleep to help your body recover.
💧
Include anti-inflammatory foods like fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 rich fish in your diet.
🧘
Avoid alcohol and smoking as they can worsen your condition and increase medicine risks.
🌞
Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing to manage stress-related pain.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

This medicine does not usually affect your ability to exercise. However, if you are taking it for pain or fever, rest and avoid strenuous activities until you feel better. Consult your doctor before resuming intense exercise.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Include omega-3 rich foods like salmon, flaxseeds, and walnuts.
Reduce intake of processed and fried foods.
Stay well hydrated with water and clear fluids.
Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
Avoid alcohol completely while taking this medicine.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine generally does not affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you feel dizzy or unwell due to pain or fever, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you feel better.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Stop taking this medicine and consult your doctor if your pain or fever persists beyond 3 days for fever or 10 days for pain, or if you experience any serious side effects such as rash, yellowing of eyes, or severe abdominal pain. Do not stop any prescribed medicine without consulting your doctor.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine at recommended doses is generally safe, but prolonged high-dose use can increase the risk of liver and kidney problems. Regular monitoring of liver and kidney function may be advised if used for extended periods. Consult your doctor if you need to take this medicine for more than 10 days for pain or 3 days for fever.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Physical therapy

Can help manage chronic pain conditions through exercises and manual techniques.

Evidence: Well-established
Hot and cold compresses

May provide local relief for muscle aches and joint pain.

Evidence: Moderate
Relaxation techniques

Stress reduction can help manage tension headaches and chronic pain.

Evidence: Moderate

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

This medicine can be taken before or after vaccinations to manage fever and pain. It does not interfere with vaccine efficacy. Consult your doctor if you have any concerns.

📦 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

✅ DO

Keep out of reach of children

❌ DON'T

Do not use after expiry date

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

When traveling, carry this medicine in its original packaging with the prescription label intact. Bring a copy of your prescription or doctor&#039;s note, especially for international travel. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If crossing time zones, continue taking it as needed for pain or fever, but do not exceed the maximum daily dose. Check customs regulations for carrying medicines in your destination country.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 35-year-old woman with a severe headache
She took this medicine as directed by her doctor. Within 45 minutes, her headache subsided significantly. She made sure not to take any other medicine containing paracetamol. She also avoided alcohol as advised.
💡 Lesson: Taking this medicine at the recommended dose provides effective relief, but checking for hidden paracetamol in other medicines is crucial to prevent overdose.
👤 A 50-year-old man with fever and body ache
He took this medicine every 6 hours for fever. He read the label carefully and did not exceed 8 tablets in 24 hours. His fever reduced within an hour of each dose. He consulted his doctor after 3 days as the fever persisted.
💡 Lesson: This medicine effectively reduces fever, but persistent fever requires medical evaluation to rule out underlying causes.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: This medicine usually starts relieving pain and reducing fever within 30 to 60 minutes after taking it by mouth.

Q: Can I take this medicine on an empty stomach?

A: Yes, you can take it on an empty stomach, but taking it with food may reduce the chance of stomach upset.

Q: What is the maximum daily dose?

A: The maximum daily dose for adults is 4000 mg (8 tablets of 500 mg) in 24 hours. Do not exceed this amount.

Q: Can I take this medicine with alcohol?

A: No, you should avoid alcohol while taking this medicine because it increases the risk of liver damage.

Q: Is this medicine safe during pregnancy?

A: Paracetamol is generally considered safe during pregnancy when taken at recommended doses for short periods. Consult your doctor before use.

🤔 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?
  • Is it safe to take with other painkillers?
  • How long does it take to work?

🔄 Substitutes for macfast 500 tablet

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: Paracetamol is completely safe in any amount.
    Fact: Paracetamol is safe only when taken at recommended doses. Exceeding the maximum daily dose can cause severe liver damage.
  • Myth: Paracetamol and ibuprofen are the same.
    Fact: They are different medicines. Paracetamol mainly acts centrally and has little anti-inflammatory effect, while ibuprofen is an NSAID with anti-inflammatory action.
  • Myth: You can drink alcohol while taking paracetamol.
    Fact: Alcohol increases the risk of liver damage when taken with paracetamol. It is best to avoid alcohol.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Paracetamol 500 mg tablet (various manufacturers)

Brand Alternatives

  • Crocin 500 mg tablet
  • Dolo 500 mg tablet
  • Calpol 500 mg tablet
  • Metacin 500 mg tablet
  • Pacimol 500 mg tablet

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Paracetamol 500 mg","class":"Analgesic/Antipyretic","main_use":"Pain and fever","anti_inflammatory":"Minimal","gi_risk":"Low","liver_risk":"Moderate to high with overdose"},{"medicine":"Ibuprofen 400 mg","class":"NSAID","main_use":"Pain, fever, inflammation","anti_inflammatory":"Yes","gi_risk":"Moderate to high","liver_risk":"Low"},{"medicine":"Aspirin 325 mg","class":"NSAID","main_use":"Pain, fever, inflammation, blood thinning","anti_inflammatory":"Yes","gi_risk":"Moderate to high","liver_risk":"Low"}]

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