Pregnant, Accidentally Had An Overdose Of Paracetamol Tablets. What Should Be Done?

Posted on Thu, 16 May 2013

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Thu, 16 May 2013 Answered on

Fri, 7 Jun 2013 Last reviewed on

Question : 4 hours ago i took 6 tablets of paracetamol (3 gms total). Regret it now what should i do?
I am 6 months pregnant! No previous psychiatric or significant medical history

Answered by Dr. Achuo Ascensius (1 hour later)

Hello,
thanks for the query.

Paracetamol is of now the most safe pain killer to take during pregnancy. A hand full of pregnant women have been taking paracetamol and no effects on baby have been documented.

However, though relatively safe, that is certain only when the dosage taken is within the safety range. Paracetamol intoxication ranges vary and could be reduced in cases of liver diseases. However, the most commonly accepted range is above 10grams per day.

At 3 grams though single dose, its less likely to have toxicity and thus there is no need to worry.

Hope this answers your query. If you have further query, i will be glad to help.
Best regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar