Macfast 500
Macfast 500 is a tablet made by Macleods Pharma that contains Paracetamol 500 mg. Paracetamol is a pain reliever and fever reducer: brings down fever and eases mild to moderate pain such as headache, body ache and toothache.
| Ingredient (salt) | Amount |
|---|---|
| Paracetamol | 500 mg |
What it is used for
Brings down fever and eases mild to moderate pain such as headache, body ache and toothache.
How it works
It works in the brain to raise the pain threshold and acts on the body's temperature centre to bring a fever down. Unlike NSAIDs it has little effect on swelling and is gentle on the stomach.
How to take it
Usual adult dose is 500 mg to 1 g every 4 to 6 hours, no more than 4 g (for example eight 500 mg tablets) in 24 hours; lower if you weigh under 50 kg, drink alcohol regularly or have liver disease. Children's doses go by weight. It can be taken with or without food.
Common side effects
- Side effects are rare at normal doses
- Occasionally rash or nausea
Get medical help straight away if
- You took more than the maximum dose, even if you feel well (liver damage shows up only after 1 to 3 days)
- Yellow skin or eyes
- A rash with blistering
Be careful
Too much damages the liver. Many cold and pain medicines also contain it, so avoid taking two at once; avoid with heavy alcohol use.
Other medicines and interactions
Many cold, flu and combination painkillers already contain paracetamol, so check every label to avoid a double dose. Regular high use can strengthen the effect of warfarin. Heavy alcohol use raises the risk of liver damage.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Paracetamol is the usual first choice for pain and fever in pregnancy and while breastfeeding, at the lowest dose that works for the shortest time.
Same composition, other brands (9)
Ask your doctor or pharmacist before switching brands.
Same ingredients, different strength or form
Common questions
What is Macfast 500?
Macfast 500 is a tablet by Macleods Pharma containing Paracetamol 500 mg.
What is Macfast 500 used for?
Brings down fever and eases mild to moderate pain such as headache, body ache and toothache.
How should I take Macfast 500?
Usual adult dose is 500 mg to 1 g every 4 to 6 hours, no more than 4 g (for example eight 500 mg tablets) in 24 hours; lower if you weigh under 50 kg, drink alcohol regularly or have liver disease. Children's doses go by weight. It can be taken with or without food. Always follow the dose your doctor or the pack gives.
What are the side effects of Macfast 500?
Common side effects include: Side effects are rare at normal doses, occasionally rash or nausea. Get medical help straight away for: You took more than the maximum dose, even if you feel well (liver damage shows up only after 1 to 3 days), yellow skin or eyes, a rash with blistering.
Does Macfast 500 need a prescription?
It is usually sold without a prescription in India, but ask a pharmacist if you take other medicines or have a long-term illness.
Can I take Macfast 500 in pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
Paracetamol is the usual first choice for pain and fever in pregnancy and while breastfeeding, at the lowest dose that works for the shortest time.
What are the substitutes for Macfast 500?
Brands with the same composition: Calpol 500, Crocin Advance, Paracip 500, Pyrigesic, Malidens 500, Pacimol 500, Welset 500, Flumol 500, Metacin. Ask your doctor or pharmacist before switching.
Sources and further reading
- Paracetamol: NHS · MedlinePlus
NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.
Composition checked against pack details from large Indian online pharmacies. Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu.
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