Vicks Action 500 Extra Tablet

It is used to provide relief from the symptoms of cold and flu. It helps treat headache, nasal congestion, sore throat, body pain, and lethargy (commonly associated with fever). It is also known to provide strong and safe action against a wide range of symptoms commonly seen in flu or seasonal illness. 

This tablet contains paracetamol, phenylephrine hydrochloride, and caffeine as its active ingredients. Paracetamol is used for pain relief and fever. It is used to relieve headaches, muscle pain, and dental pain. It acts as an analgesic (pain reliever) and antipyretic (fever reducer). It works by blocking the release of certain chemical messengers that cause pain and fever.

This medicine is considered safe when taken as recommended by your doctor. It is usually best taken with food otherwise it may upset your stomach. Do not take more or use it for longer than recommended. Side effects are rare if this medicine is used correctly but this medicine may cause stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting in some people. Consult your doctor if any of these side effects bother you or do not go away.

Key ingredients:

• Paracetamol I.P: 500mg
• Phenylephrine Hydrochloride I.P: 10mg
• Caffeine Anhydrous I.P: 32mg

Key benefits/uses of Vicks Action 500 Extra Tablet:

• Provides strong yet safe day-long multi-symptom relief 
• Improves common symptoms of cold and flu
• Aids in providing effective relief from headache and body pain
• Clears nasal congestion (blocked nose) and sore throat
• Helps to improve lethargy which is commonly seen in people with flu and cold

Directions for use: 

Take this medicine as recommended by your doctor. Ideally, adults are advised to take 1 tablet 4 times a day while children should not take more than 2 tablets a day (in divided doses). It is best to consult your doctor to know the right dose of this medication for your child. It is not advised to give this medication to children below 6 years of age.

Quick tips for Vicks Action 500 Extra Tablet:

• Do not use this medicine along with other medicines that contain the same ingredients, for e.g. paracetamol. 
• It is advised not to take it in excess as an overdose may be injurious to the liver. In such a case, consult a doctor promptly even if there are no symptoms. 
• Consult the doctor prior to taking the medicine if you are pregnant or are a nursing woman.
• Do not take this medicine along with alcohol. Also, individuals consuming 3 or more alcoholic drinks per day, should inform their doctor before taking this medicine.
• People suffering from liver disease and kidney disease or those taking drugs for or having heart disease, thyroid disease, high blood pressure, depression, or Parkinson’s disease, should talk to their doctor first.
• Consult your doctor at the earliest if your symptoms last for more than 7 days or if your condition worsens.
• Remember to strictly follow the dosage schedule as failure to do so may have serious consequences.
• Take the medicine at the same time every day to help you remember to take it.
• Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully to get the most out of this medication.
• Tell your doctor about all the medicines you are taking as they may affect or be affected by this medicine.
• In case you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the dose you missed and take your next dose at the scheduled time.
• If you experience any unwanted side effects, consult your doctor at the earliest to avoid any complications.

Side effects of Vicks Action 500 Extra Tablet:

These tablets are usually safe and don’t cause any side effects when taken as per the doctor's recommendation. However, an overdose of paracetamol can cause severe life-threatening liver injury as a serious side effect. Taking more than the prescribed dose may also cause kidney injury, decreased platelet count, and even lead to coma. Early symptoms of an overdose include nausea, vomiting, and general tiredness. Immediately consult a doctor or reach an emergency in case of a suspected overdose. 

Storage and safety information:

• Read the label carefully before use.
• Do not exceed the recommended dose.
• Keep out of the reach and sight of children.
• Store in a cool‚ dry, and dark place (below 25°C).
• Protect from direct sunlight and moisture.
• Use under medical supervision.

FAQs related to Vicks Action 500 Extra Tablet:

Q. What is Vicks Action 500 Extra Tablet used for?

It is used to provide relief from the symptoms of cold and flu. It helps to treat headaches, nasal congestion, sore throat, body pain, and lethargy (commonly associated with fever). It is also known to provide strong and safe action against a wide range of symptoms commonly seen in flu or seasonal illness. 

Q. How long does Paracetamol take to work?

Paracetamol takes around 30-45 minutes to start working, following which you may notice a decrease in your body temperature and relief in pain.

Q. When will I feel better after taking Paracetamol?

Usually, you will start feeling better after about half an hour of taking this medicine. However, it is advised to complete the course of your medicine to attain its maximum benefits.

Q. How often can I take Paracetamol?

You should only take four doses of Paracetamol in 24 hours. There should be a gap of at least 4 hours between two doses. Do not take Paracetamol for more than 3 days without first talking to your doctor.

Q. Is Paracetamol safe for children?

Paracetamol is considered safe for children only when used as directed by the doctor. Vicks Action 500 Extra tablet is considered to be safe in children above 6 years of age. Children below 6 years of age are not advised to take this medicine.

Q. What are the serious side effects of taking excess Paracetamol?

An overdose of paracetamol can cause severe life-threatening liver injury as a serious side effect. Taking more than the prescribed dose may also cause kidney injury, decreased platelet count, and even lead to coma. Early symptoms of an overdose include nausea, vomiting, and general tiredness. Immediately consult a doctor or reach an emergency in case of a suspected overdose.

References:

1. Acetaminophen - StatPearls
2. Jóźwiak-Bebenista M, Nowak JZ. Paracetamol: mechanism of action, applications and safety concern. Acta Pol Pharm. 2014 Jan-Feb;71(1):11-23. PMID: 24779190.