Macfast 650 (10 Tab)

MACFAST 650 Tablet

MACFAST 650 Tablet, manufactured by Macleods Pharmaceuticals Ltd., is a widely used medication for managing pain and fever.

• Name:

  • Brand Name: MACFAST 650 Tablet
  • Common Name: Paracetamol (Acetaminophen)

• Composition:

  • Each tablet contains Paracetamol 650 mg.

• Uses: MACFAST 650 Tablet is primarily used as an analgesic (pain reliever) and antipyretic (fever reducer). It is prescribed for:

  • Reducing fever.
  • Relieving mild to moderate pain, including headaches, migraines, toothaches, sore throats, and period (menstrual) pain.
  • Alleviating back pain, muscle pain, rheumatic pain, arthritis, muscle aches, joint discomfort, and post-surgical or dental pain.
  • Providing symptomatic relief for the common cold and flu.
  • Treating post-immunization pyrexia.

• Dosage and Administration:

  • The typical adult dose is one 650 mg tablet, taken orally every 4 to 6 hours or 6 to 8 hours as needed.
  • Do not exceed 4 tablets (4 grams) in 24 hours.
  • It can be taken with or without food. However, taking it with food or milk is recommended to prevent stomach upset.
  • Swallow the tablet whole; do not chew, crush, or break it.
  • Maintain a gap of 4-6 hours between each dose.

• Side Effects: While generally safe when taken as recommended, some individuals may experience side effects:

  • Common: Nausea, stomach pain, vomiting, and dark-colored urine. Mild skin rash may also occur.
  • Serious (rare, often due to overdose): Severe liver damage, kidney injury, decreased platelet count, allergic reactions (skin rash, swelling, difficulty breathing), and in extreme cases, coma.

• Precautions:

  • Do not take MACFAST 650 Tablet if you are allergic to paracetamol or any other ingredients.
  • Consult a physician if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
  • Avoid alcohol consumption as it may increase the risk of liver damage.
  • Exercise caution and inform your doctor if you have liver disease, kidney disease, chronic malnutrition, anorexia (eating disorder), alcohol abuse, or are dehydrated.
  • Do not take other medicines that contain paracetamol to avoid overdose.
  • Avoid taking indigestion remedies (antacids) within two hours of taking MACFAST 650 Tablet.
  • Not recommended for children below 10-12 years of age, as safety and efficacy are not established for younger children.
  • Long-term or excessive use may lead to serious complications such as stomach bleeding and kidney problems. Overdose can lead to severe life-threatening liver injury.

• Storage:

  • Store in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight.
  • Keep out of sight and reach of children and pets.
  • Store at temperatures below 25°C or below 30°C.

What is MACFAST 650 used for?

MACFAST 650 Tablet is primarily used to reduce fever and treat various types of mild to moderate pain. This includes common ailments like headaches, migraines, toothaches, period pain (menstrual cramps), back pain, muscle pain, rheumatic pain, arthritis, and discomfort associated with the common cold.

How does MACFAST 650 work?

MACFAST 650 contains Paracetamol (Acetaminophen) as its active ingredient. It works by inhibiting the production of specific chemical messengers in the brain known as prostaglandins, which are responsible for causing pain. Additionally, it acts on the hypothalamic heat-regulating center in the brain, which helps to lower elevated body temperature and reduce fever.

What is the usual dosage of MACFAST 650?

For adults, the usual recommended dose is one tablet (650 mg) every 6 to 8 hours as needed. It is crucial not to exceed 4 tablets (4 grams) within a 24-hour period. A gap of at least 4 to 6 hours should be maintained between doses. It is often recommended to take MACFAST 650 with food or milk to prevent stomach upset.

What are the possible side effects of MACFAST 650?

While generally well-tolerated when taken as directed, common side effects may include nausea, stomach pain or upset, and a mild skin rash. In rare cases, especially with overdose or prolonged use, more serious side effects such as liver damage, allergic reactions, or a low blood cell count can occur. If any side effects persist or worsen, it's advisable to consult a doctor.

Is MACFAST 650 safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

During pregnancy, MACFAST 650 (Paracetamol) is generally considered safe when taken at the recommended lowest effective dose for the shortest possible duration, and only after consulting a physician. For breastfeeding mothers, it is also considered safe if prescribed by a doctor, as only minimal amounts are excreted in breast milk. However, always seek medical advice before use if pregnant or breastfeeding.

Can MACFAST 650 be taken with other medications?

MACFAST 650 can generally be taken with most antibiotics. However, caution is advised as it can interact with other medications, including:

• Other products containing paracetamol (to avoid overdose)
• Medicines for nausea and vomiting (e.g., metoclopramide, domperidone)
• Blood thinners (anticoagulants) like warfarin, as it may increase the risk of bleeding
• Cholestyramine (used to control blood lipid levels)
• Certain medications for bacterial infections (e.g., rifampicin, flucloxacillin, chloramphenicol)
• Phenytoin and zidovudine
• Teriflunomide, ketoconazole, lomitapide, leflunomide, and oxazepam, as these may increase the risk of liver injury or alter drug effectiveness.

Always inform your doctor or pharmacist about all prescription, over-the-counter, herbal, and vitamin supplements you are currently taking to avoid potential interactions.

What precautions should be taken while taking MACFAST 650?

• Do not exceed the recommended dose to prevent serious liver damage.
• Avoid consuming alcohol, as it significantly increases the risk of liver damage when taken with paracetamol.
• Patients with pre-existing liver or kidney conditions should use MACFAST 650 with caution and under medical supervision, as dose adjustments may be necessary.
• Inform your doctor if you have an impaired nutritional state (due to anorexia, malnutrition, or alcohol abuse) or are dehydrated before taking this medicine.
• It is generally not recommended for children under 12 years of age for the 650 mg strength.
• Take the tablet with food or milk to minimize stomach upset.
• Avoid taking antacids within two hours of consuming MACFAST 650.

What happens if a dose of MACFAST 650 is missed?

If you miss a dose of MACFAST 650, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. Always ensure there is a gap of at least 4-6 hours between doses.

How should MACFAST 650 be stored?

MACFAST 650 tablets should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. The storage temperature should typically be below 25°C or 30°C. Keep the medicine out of the sight and reach of children. Do not use expired medicine.