How can you get paracetamol in Korea?
Paracetamol is the same as acetaminophen. In some countries it is more commonly referred to as paracetamol, and in others as acetaminophen. In Korea, it is called acetaminophen rather than paracetamol. ‘paracetamol’ is rarely used.
Therefore, the terminology below will use the term acetaminophen instead of paracetamol. Acetaminophen is the most widely used over-the-counter antipyretic in Korea.
What is acetaminophen
indication and usage(MFDS)
- Main efficacy/effect Fever and pain due to a cold, headache, neuralgia, muscle pain, dysmenorrhea, sprain pain
- It can also be used for the following diseases. Toothache, joint pain, rheumatoid pain
classification : antipyretic analgesic
Where to buy acetaminophen in Korea
Most pharmacies in Korea have them. I would dare to guess, 99%. However, when a pandemic occurs, it becomes difficult to obtain.
price : 10tab / $5 (It may vary by pharmacy.)
How should I say it?
You may mention the name of the acetaminophen, or specific brand name.
Acetaminophen brand name in Korea
- Tylenol(타이레놀)
- Tacenol(타세놀)
- Tynol(타이놀)
- Tylen(타이렌)
- Tolupan(토루판)
and so on…
Because there are close to 100 Acetaminophen products, pharmacy may recommend a different product.
do they speak english?
Much of Korea’s compulsory curriculum is in English. So most pharmacists understand basic English. Even if they do not understand English in the rare case, you will be able to find the medicine you are looking for if you say “Acetaminophen” or the brand name correctly.
Or, show the Korean sentence below to the pharmacy staff or pharmacist.
- 저는 아세트아미노펜 성분의 의약품을 찾고 있습니다.
Dosage and administration
- It is written as 500 mg per tablet. The content may vary depending on the type of tablet.
Children and adults 12 years of age and older: Take 1-2 tablets 3-4 times a day (every 4-6 hours) as needed.
Adverse reaction and precaution
Do not take more than 4 grams (8 tablets) per day.
Do not drink alcohol while taking the medicine. In the case of extended-release tablets, be careful about taking an excessive dose.
How to get ibuprofen in Korea