Take paracetamol as directed on the packet or patient information leaflet, or as directed by your GP or pharmacist (chemist).
Missed doses
If you forget to take your dose of paracetamol, the general advice is as follows:
If the dose is less than two hours late
- take the dose as soon as you remember and then take the next dose four hours after the missed dose. Doses of paracetamol must be at least four hours apart.
If the dose is more than two hours late
- omit the missed dose, wait until the next dose is due, and then continue as normal.
You can also check the patient information leaflet that comes with your medicine as this should give you advice about what to do if you miss a dose.
Extra doses
If you accidentally take an extra dose of paracetamol, miss out the next dose so that you do not more than eight tablets in 24 hours. Then carry on as normal. If you feel unwell or are concerned, contact your GP or call NHS Direct on 0845 4647.
If you have taken more than the recommended dose of paracetamol, you must contact your GP or go to accident and emergency (A&E) immediately.
If you need further advice about missed or extra doses of paracetamol, contact your GP or pharmacist or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.
