1000mg Paracetamol: Safe Dosage, Side Effects & Where to Buy in the UK

Author:

Analgesia team

Last Updated on June 20, 2025 by Analgesia team

Paracetamol is one of the most commonly used painkillers in the UK — and for good reason. It’s effective, affordable, and widely accessible. But when you start looking into higher doses like 1000mg, things get more serious. You might be wondering: Is it safe? Can I buy it over the counter? What are the risks?

In this post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about 1000mg paracetamol, including how it compares to the standard 500mg dose, safety guidelines, potential side effects, and more. We’ll also address real questions people are asking, like If one can take paracetamol with ibuprofen or drink alcohol while taking it.

Let’s break it down.

What Is 1000mg Paracetamol — and Is It Safe?

Paracetamol typically comes in 500mg tablets, which means 1000mg equals two standard pills. For many adults, 1000mg is considered a normal single dose — but the frequency and total amount taken per day are what really matter.

Safe Dosage Guidelines:

Single dose: 500mg to 1000mg (1–2 tablets)
Frequency: Every 4 to 6 hours
Maximum daily dose: 4000mg (8 tablets (500mg) total in 24 hours)

Taking more than this puts serious strain on your liver, and in extreme cases, can lead to liver failure or death.

500mg vs 1000mg Paracetamol: What’s the Difference?

While both doses contain the same active ingredient, the strength makes a difference depending on the severity of your pain or fever.

Feature	500mg	1000mg
Common Use	Mild pain or fever	Moderate to stronger pain
Typical Form	OTC tablets	2 x 500mg or single Rx tablet
Duration	4–6 hrs	4–6 hrs
Risks	Low at standard dose	Higher risk if misused

💡 Tip:

Some prescription-strength brands come in 1000mg single tablets, but many people simply take two 500mg tablets at once — which is totally standard, if used responsibly.

Can I Take Ibuprofen with Paracetamol?

Yes, you can take ibuprofen and paracetamol together — and in many cases, it’s actually recommended for stronger pain relief.

Here’s how they differ:

Paracetamol: Works on the brain’s pain signals and reduces fever
Ibuprofen: Reduces inflammation in addition to relieving pain

You can:

Take them at the same time, OR
Alternate them every few hours (example: paracetamol at noon, ibuprofen at 3 pm)

Don’t forget to check the labels or ask your pharmacist, especially if you have conditions like asthma, ulcers, or kidney issues.

Can You Drink Alcohol While Taking Paracetamol?

This is where you need to tread carefully.

While occasional moderate drinking might not interact directly with paracetamol, both substances are processed by your liver. Taking them together, especially in high doses or regularly, can increase the risk of liver damage.

Our advice?
Skip the alcohol when using paracetamol, especially if you’re taking the 1000mg dose.

Can I Take Paracetamol When Pregnant?

Yes — paracetamol is generally considered safe during pregnancy, even in the 1000mg dose, provided you follow the proper guidelines.

UK’s NHS and most doctors recommend:

Taking the lowest effective dose
Only for short-term use
Always under medical guidance if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding

Avoid combining with other meds without speaking to a GP.

What’s in Paracetamol? (Ingredients + How It Works)

Paracetamol’s active ingredient is, well, paracetamol (also known as acetaminophen in some countries). It works by:

Blocking pain signals in the brain
Reducing fever by acting on the body’s temperature-control centre

Typical inactive ingredients may include:

Starch
Povidone
Magnesium stearate
Cellulose

Always check the leaflet or packaging, especially if you have allergies or dietary restrictions.

Can You Overdose on Paracetamol?

Yes — and it’s one of the most common causes of drug-related hospital admissions in the UK.

Signs of Overdose:

Nausea or vomiting
Loss of appetite
Confusion or tiredness
Yellowing of skin (jaundice)

Even if symptoms seem mild, seek immediate medical help. Overdosing on paracetamol can cause irreversible liver damage, and often people don’t feel the damage until it’s too late.

Where to Buy 1000mg Paracetamol in the UK

1000mg paracetamol is not usually sold as a single over-the-counter tablet in the UK. But there are some few places you can order it online.

1. SolpaOne 1000mg Effervescent Paracetamol Tablets

SolpaOne 1000mg soluble tablets deliver the highest single-tablet dose of paracetamol available. When dissolved in a glass of water, they can provide effective relief from mild to moderate pain or fever.

This medication is intended for use only by adults and adolescents aged 16 and over, who weigh more than 50kg.

Maximum daily dose: Do not exceed 4 effervescent tablets in 24 hours, taking only one tablet at a time.

If your pain lasts longer than three days, your fever doesn’t improve, worsens, or new symptoms develop, stop taking the medicine and speak to your doctor.

An effervescent tablet is designed to dissolve completely when added to a liquid like water or juice. As it fizzes and breaks apart, the ingredients mix evenly into the liquid — making it easy to drink, just like a regular beverage.

2. Feverfew 1000mg Tablets – Headaches Relief Joints Health Anti Inflammatory Natural Supplement

Feverfew, the key ingredient in this supplement, is widely recognised for its potential to help prevent headaches. Research suggests it may reduce both the frequency and severity of headaches for some individuals.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Rich in parthenolides, feverfew offers natural anti-inflammatory benefits. These compounds may help ease inflammation throughout the body — including the skin — offering added protection and relief.

Joint Support
Traditionally used to manage arthritis, feverfew is believed to support joint health. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, it may help reduce joint stiffness and discomfort, promoting easier movement.

Mood & Emotional Wellbeing
Feverfew is also associated with mood-balancing effects. Adding this natural supplement to your routine may support emotional health and contribute to a more stable, positive mindset.

Clean & Natural Formula
This supplement is carefully crafted without harsh chemicals, preservatives, or artificial flavours. It offers a pure, plant-based solution, making it a safe and suitable option for vegetarians.

Frequently Asked Questions About 1000mg Paracetamol

Is 1000mg paracetamol better than 500mg?

A 1000mg dose of paracetamol can provide more potent pain relief compared to 500mg, especially for moderate discomfort. However, it’s essential to adhere to recommended dosages and consult a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate amount for your specific needs.

Does 1000mg paracetamol make you sleepy?

Paracetamol itself doesn’t cause drowsiness. However, by alleviating pain or reducing fever, it may help you relax, which could lead to improved sleep quality.

What is paracetamol 1000mg used for?

Paracetamol 1000mg is commonly used to relieve mild to moderate pain, such as headaches, muscle aches, and toothaches, as well as to reduce fever. It’s often included in cold and flu remedies.

Can I take 1000mg of paracetamol every 4 hours?

Yes, adults can take 1000mg of paracetamol every 4 to 6 hours as needed, but should not exceed 4000mg in a 24-hour period to avoid potential liver damage.

Can you give paracetamol to dogs?

Paracetamol can be toxic to dogs and should only be administered under veterinary supervision. Incorrect dosing can lead to serious health issues, including liver damage. Always consult your vet before giving any medication to your pet.

Is paracetamol anti-inflammatory?

No, paracetamol is not classified as an anti-inflammatory drug. While it’s effective at reducing pain and fever, it has minimal anti-inflammatory effects compared to medications like ibuprofen or aspirin.
That’s why it’s commonly used for headaches, fevers, or general aches — but not ideal for conditions where reducing inflammation is key, such as arthritis or injuries involving swelling.

Final Thoughts

Paracetamol 1000mg can be a powerful ally in managing pain and fever when used responsibly. Whether you’re reaching for it after a long day, managing a recurring ache, or simply curious about how it works, understanding your options is key to making informed choices about your health.

Before you go, remember:

Always follow dosage guidelines
Consult your GP if symptoms persist
And if in doubt, less is often more

Got questions? Drop them in the comments or check out our FAQ section above — chances are, we’ve already covered it.

And hey, if you found this guide helpful, consider sharing it or bookmarking for later. Every share helps others find reliable health info (and gives us a little boost too 😉).