top cx logo
cx logo
Explorearrow down
search icon

Paracetamol to carry health warning in France

Health watchdog insists paracetamol products feature warning on risk of overdose

All medicines containing the painkiller paracetamol will have to carry a warning notice indicating the dangers posed by an overdose of the chemical, government health watchdog Agence Nationale de Sécurité du Médicament et des Produits de Santé (ANSM) has said.

Paracetamol is the active ingredient in more than 200 commercially available medicines, including popular painkillers Doliprane and Dafalgan, and is a go-to treatment for doctors for patients suffering mild pain and fever.

Manufacturers of paracetamol products now have nine months to change their packaging to carry the warning: "Overdose = Danger," followed by the statement: "Taking more than the recommended dose can damage your liver."

New packaging must also indicate maximum permissible single doses; maximum intake over a 24-hour period; the minimum delay between two administrations of the product; and a warning about taking other products containing paracetamol.

ANSM said that, used correctly, paracetamol is safe and effective painkiller. It noted, however, that overdoses are a leading factor in liver disease cases in France. Le Parisien reported the case of a 22-year-old who needed a transplant after taking six or seven tablets a day for several months.

Sales of paracetamol products in France have jumped 50% in the past 10 years, ANSM said.

Stay informed:
Sign up to our free weekly e-newsletter
Subscribe to access all our online articles and receive our printed monthly newspaper The Connexion at your home. News analysis, features and practical help for English-speakers in France

Resident or second-home owner in France?
Benefit from our daily digest of headlines and how-to's to help you make the most of life in France
By joining the newsletter, you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy
See more popular articles
The Connexion Help Guides
featured helpguide
Healthcare in France*
Featured Help Guide
- Understand the French healthcare system, how you access it and how you are reimbursed - Useful if you are new to the French healthcare system or want a more in-depth understanding - Reader question and answer section Aimed at non-French nationals living here, the guide gives an overview of what you are (and are not) covered for. There is also information for second-home owners and regular visitors.
Get news, views and information from France