A few paracetemol too many?

[TaytoCrisp]

I have inadvertently taken 11 paracetemol over the past 24 hours as i have had a throbbing toothache (for a few days). The max. recommended dose is 8. I'm now a little bit worried as there are lots of scary warnings on the internet saying not to take more than 8 x 500mg tablets during 24 hours. But the packets are confusing as they say you can two every 4 to 6 hours... so i was taking 2 every four hours, then woke up with a toothache in the middle of the night, and without thinking took two...This must be easy mistake to make!

I rang NHS 24, and after a long chat, they suggested that i don't take anymore today, but perhaps could take two tonight before bed. They said i should not be toxic. But i'd feel even more reassured if i knew that others had taken a few too many accidentally, and didnt end up with any problems! Im 8 weeks pregnant.

Anyone take a few too many, but with no ill effects? Im sure its a common mistake!

What is happening about your tooth ache? A tooth infection is potentially harmful during pregnancy, and you should be seen as soon as possible to get it treated.

Dental treatment is free during pregnancy.

Thanks Belgo, I tried to get an emergency appointment today but couldnt due to the holiday; i'll go to my dentist the first thing in the morning. I did get some good advice from the NHS emergency line though.

Definitely go to dentist as Belgo says.
I didn't go with a pain when pregnant as I thought they couldn't do anything and ended up having root canal work and a crown after DS2 was born when it would have been a simple filling they could have done when I was pregnant.
My dentist said if toothache ever keeps you awake at night you need to go in.

I'm sure NHS Direct know what they're talking about. Try not to worry.

Hi there, I am 9 weeks pregnant and took 10 paracetamol in a day when I was 6 weeks pregnant, also for a tooth problem. I went to emergency dentist to get the tooth seen to and didnt need so much pain relief after it had been flushed out of infection. Go to the dentist soon if you can as you won't need so much pain relief after if you get it sorted, tell them you are pregnant too as they may not be able to give you antibiotics.

I am due a scan and tests on Thursday (early private scan) so I will give you an update then to say if everything is ok. I haven't had any pains or anything to make me think the extra paracetamol has caused a problem. Stick to the 8 tablet recommendation just now though just to be on the safe side but I'm sure it will be fine :) in the same boat here!

Hi, at around 10 weeks I had horrible toothache due to an absess and took 10 paracetamol 2 days in a row before I was able to go to the dentist as i was in so much pain.

I am now 21 weeks and have had my 20 week scan and everything is fine :). Definatly get to the dentist asap though.

Many thanks for the replies; and good luck with scan Ratata.

The 11 paracetemol didn't seem to have any ill effect, though i have hardly taken any since, as they can have a cumulative effect.

My dentist was rubbish really; said i have wisdom tooth pain "like everyone else" and there was nothing to be done about it. He said he would refer me to the dental hospital if "you cant manage". I rang them the next day and asked for a referral, which apparently will take up to 18 weeks! . So im really hoping it will subside between now and the appointment; im trying various non-pharmacological approaches to pain relief in the meantime with varying success.

Many thanks anyway.