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Does taking too many medications cause health problems?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I took too much medicine at night, including seven tablets of Paracetamol and eight herbal medicines. Now I feel a burning sensation and pain in my stomach. I am staying in a hostel. How can I relieve this without taking more medication? Can this cause health problems?

Kindly advise.

Answered by Dr. Ashraf Ghani

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Ashraf Ghani is a dedicated general medicine physician committed to providing comprehensive and evidence-based healthcare for adult patients. He has experience in diagnosing and managing a wide range of acute and chronic medical conditions, including diabetes, hypertension, infections, respiratory illnesses, and lifestyle-related disorders. Dr. Ashraf Ghani focuses on accurate diagnosis, preventive care, and personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's needs. Known for his compassionate and patient-centered approach, Dr. Ashraf Ghani strives to help patients achieve better health through clear communication and quality medical care.  

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Taking seven tablets of Paracetamol (Acetaminophen) along with eight herbal medicines in one night is far too much. This can significantly irritate the stomach and may also harm the liver. The burning sensation and pain you are experiencing are most likely due to gastric irritation, but the more serious concern is liver toxicity, which can occur even if you feel relatively well at first.

Since you are in a hostel and do not have access to medication, you can take the following steps immediately:

  • Drink plenty of water slowly to help dilute stomach irritants.

  • Eat light foods such as plain bread, bananas, or plain biscuits to reduce acidity.

  • Avoid lying flat; instead, sit upright or lie on your left side to reduce acid reflux.

  • Avoid spicy, oily, or acidic foods for at least the next 24 hours.

  • Do not take any more Paracetamol (Acetaminophen) or any herbal medicines.

It is very important to understand that taking seven tablets of Paracetamol in one night can put your liver at risk, even if symptoms seem mild initially. If you develop nausea, vomiting, worsening abdominal pain, yellowing of the eyes or skin, extreme tiredness, or persistent discomfort, you must go to a hospital immediately. Paracetamol overdose can cause serious and delayed liver damage and should never be ignored.

For now, focus on hydration, light meals, rest, and avoiding any further medicines. If symptoms worsen or do not improve, seek medical care without delay.

I hope you are satisfied with my answer. For further queries, you can consult me at iCliniq.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At February 26, 2026
Reviewed At February 26, 2026

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Ashraf Ghani is a dedicated general medicine physician committed to providing comprehensive and evidence-based healthcare for adult patients. He has experience in diagnosing and managing a wide range of acute and chronic medical conditions, including diabetes, hypertension, infections, respiratory illnesses, and lifestyle-related disorders. Dr. Ashraf Ghani focuses on accurate diagnosis, preventive care, and personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's needs. Known for his compassionate and patient-centered approach, Dr. Ashraf Ghani strives to help patients achieve better health through clear communication and quality medical care.  

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Ashraf Ghani is a dedicated general medicine physician committed to providing comprehensive and evidence-based healthcare for adult patients. He has experience in diagnosing and managing a wide range of acute and chronic medical conditions, including diabetes, hypertension, infections, respiratory illnesses, and lifestyle-related disorders. Dr. Ashraf Ghani focuses on accurate diagnosis, preventive care, and personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's needs. Known for his compassionate and patient-centered approach, Dr. Ashraf Ghani strives to help patients achieve better health through clear communication and quality medical care.  

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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