Macfast 500 Tablet: Complete Medicine Guide
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।
💊 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 Name | macfast 500 tablet |
| Manufacturer | Macleods Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd |
| Packaging / Form | Varies by brand (Allopathy) |
| Therapeutic Class | PAIN ANALGESICS |
| Action Class | Analgesic & Antipyretic-PCM |
| Route of Administration | Oral |
| Storage | Store 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 Life | Typically 24 to 36 months from the date of manufacture, depending on the manufacturer. Check the expiry date on the pack. |
| WHO Guideline | Paracetamol 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 Guideline | The 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
🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?
Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.
🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)
Pharmacokinetics
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
💡 How to Take macfast 500 tablet
Strength: 500 mg immediate-release tablet
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | For 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 Dosage | Pediatric dosing is not established from available information for this 500 mg tablet. Consult a pediatrician for appropriate dosing in children. |
| Elderly Dosage | Elderly 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 Impairment | In 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 Impairment | In 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 Dose | 4000 mg (8 tablets of 500 mg) in 24 hours for adults. Do not exceed this dose. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of macfast 500 tablet
✅ Common Side Effects
🚨 Serious Side Effects
⚠️ Rare Side Effects
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
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
🏋️ 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
💼 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.
Can help manage chronic pain conditions through exercises and manual techniques.
Evidence: Well-establishedMay provide local relief for muscle aches and joint pain.
Evidence: ModerateStress 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'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.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
A: This medicine usually starts relieving pain and reducing fever within 30 to 60 minutes after taking it by mouth.
A: Yes, you can take it on an empty stomach, but taking it with food may reduce the chance of stomach upset.
A: The maximum daily dose for adults is 4000 mg (8 tablets of 500 mg) in 24 hours. Do not exceed this amount.
A: No, you should avoid alcohol while taking this medicine because it increases the risk of liver damage.
A: Paracetamol is generally considered safe during pregnancy when taken at recommended doses for short periods. Consult your doctor before use.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🔄 Substitutes for macfast 500 tablet
View AllAlternative brands with exact same active ingredient:
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babymol 500mg tabletLaborate Pharmaceuticals India Ltd ₹2.50 73.9% CHEAPER
-
anglopar 500mg tabletAnglo-French Drugs & Industries Ltd ₹2.68 72% CHEAPER
-
dagmol 500mg tabletDagon Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd ₹2.90 69.7% CHEAPER
-
metalgin 500mg tabletMount Mettur Pharmaceuticals Ltd ₹2.98 68.9% CHEAPER
-
cachpar 500mg tabletCachet Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd ₹3.16 67% CHEAPER
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