Dolo 650 has become something of a household name in India — consumed for a variety of ailments or even ‘just in case’. Excessive usage of paracetamol can however come with a whole host of problems — from nausea to acute liver failure. The issue came under the spotlight earlier this week after an US-based doctor noted that Indians were prone to popping paracetamol as though it were a particularly delicious snack.
“Indians take Dolo 650 like it’s Cadbury gems,” wrote gastroenterologist Dr Palaniappan Manickam on X.
And while many found the comment hilarious others debated the many side effects that could emerge from overconsumption of the pills. Many in the comment section admitted to over-using the medicine for various reasons while others claimed that such warnings were often repeated without much happening by way of side effects.
“True, it’s like the unofficial national snack. You’ve got a headache? Take Dolo. Feeling sluggish? Dolo. Running late? Dolo in hand,” laughed one user.
“Dolo 650 is a daily vitamin now. And Disprin too,” wrote another.
“The blind trust in Dolo 650 is wild. Half the country treats it like a multivitamin,” said a third.
What is Dolo 650?
The popular medicine is an analgesic (pain reliever) and anti-pyretic (fever reducer) that works by blocking the release of certain chemical messengers that cause pain and fever. The tablets are made by Bengaluru-based Bengaluru-based Micro Labs and can be bought over the counter in pharmacies, supermarkets and other shops. Dolo 650 has become something of a household name in India — gaining additional momentum during the COVID-19 pandemic.
How many Dolo 650 tablets can you take? What are the side effects?
According to its listing on pharmaceutical website 1mg, Dolo 650 can have several side effects including headaches, constipation, itching, insomnia and even nausea and vomiting. Doctors typically advise patients to limit their consumption of paracetamol to a maximum of 4 grams within 24 hours.
“Adults can take two 500mg tablets, 4 times in 24 hours. You must wait at least 4 hours between doses. The maximum is eight 500mg tablets in 24 hours. If you’re taking 1g tablets, do not take more than four in 24 hours,” explains the UK’s National Health Service.
It is considered unsafe to consume alcohol with the tablets. Patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding should also consult their doctor before using the medicine. Those suffering from kidney or liver disease should also exercise caution while using the medicine as excessive usage can cause additional damage.