The Viral Tweet That Shook India
Dolo overuse in India: A well-known doctor posted a tweet that instantly went viral. He wrote, “Indians eat Dolo like Cadbury Gems.” This tweet, while humorous at first glance, exposed a worrying reality—the reckless and casual overuse of Dolo 650, India’s favorite paracetamol tablet.
Within hours, thousands shared stories of how they or others rely on Dolo for minor aches, fevers, or tiredness. The tweet sparked an online conversation but raised a red flag: Is India addicted to Dolo?
What Is Dolo and Why Do Indians Overuse It?
Dolo 650 is a branded version of paracetamol (acetaminophen), a common over-the-counter medicine for fever and mild pain relief. In India, it is affordable, widely available, and doesn’t need a prescription.
That’s why most people feel it’s okay to take Dolo for everything—from a mild headache to post-workout soreness. But here’s the problem: frequent, unmonitored use of Dolo can cause long-term health problems.
Many don’t realize that paracetamol, when overused or taken in high doses, can damage vital organs like the liver and kidneys. Yet, Indians continue popping Dolo like it’s candy.
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The Popularity Boom: How COVID-19 Fueled Dolo Overuse in India
Before the pandemic, Dolo was already a household name. But during COVID-19, its usage skyrocketed. Doctors prescribed it for managing fever and body aches, two major symptoms of COVID-19.
Pharmacies reported that Dolo 650 became one of the most sold drugs in India during the pandemic. Dolo’s manufacturer sold over 350 crore tablets during that period.
People began keeping strips of Dolo in every bag, drawer, and vehicle. What started as a health necessity soon turned into a mindless habit. Many began taking Dolo without understanding proper dosage or consulting a doctor.
Dolo Overuse in India: A Growing Public Health Crisis
The phrase “Dolo overuse in India” is no longer just a funny observation—it’s a real public health issue. Several reports suggest that a large chunk of India’s population self-medicates regularly with painkillers, especially Dolo.
Here’s why this is concerning:
No prescription needed: Anyone can walk into a chemist and buy Dolo.
Lack of awareness: Most don’t read the dosage instructions.
Misinformation: People think paracetamol is completely safe, regardless of dose or frequency.
Convenience: It’s easier to take a Dolo than visit a doctor.
This behavior increases the risk of liver damage, misdiagnosed illnesses, and harmful drug interactions.
How Paracetamol Affects the Body
When you consume paracetamol, your liver processes it and breaks it down into substances your body can eliminate. But if you take too much, your liver can’t handle the overload.
Here’s what happens:
Normal dose: Safe and effective for reducing fever or pain.
Overdose: Liver enzymes convert excess paracetamol into a toxic compound.
Toxic build-up: The toxic compound can damage liver cells, leading to acute liver failure.
You may not feel the damage right away, but repeated overuse silently deteriorates your health.
Side Effects and Dangers of Dolo Overuse
1. Liver Damage
Dolo overuse puts immense pressure on the liver. Long-term or high-dose consumption can lead to liver failure, requiring hospitalization or even a transplant.
2. Kidney Dysfunction
Excessive use can also impair your kidneys, especially if you take other medications alongside it or are dehydrated.
3. Masking Symptoms
Taking Dolo for every ache can hide serious conditions. You may delay seeking medical help for infections, chronic pain, or underlying diseases.
4. Allergic Reactions
Some people may develop allergies to paracetamol, which can cause rashes, swelling, or even anaphylaxis.
5. Drug Interactions
If you take Dolo with alcohol or other medications like blood thinners, you risk dangerous interactions that can worsen your health condition.
Real-Life Scenarios: When Dolo Became a Routine Habit
Take Rajesh, a 32-year-old IT professional in Pune. Every time he felt fatigued or had a long day, he popped a Dolo “just to be safe.” Over six months, he took 3–4 tablets daily without realizing he was poisoning his liver.
In another case, a mother in Delhi gave her teenage daughter Dolo every week for menstrual cramps, without ever consulting a gynecologist. The teen now faces digestive issues and irregular liver enzymes.
These are not isolated stories. They reflect a national pattern of ignorance and overconfidence in self-medication.
How to Use Paracetamol Safely
You can safely use Dolo if you follow these steps:
✅ Follow the Right Dosage
Adults: Max 3–4 grams per day (that’s 6–8 Dolo 650 tablets in 24 hours)
Children: Always consult a pediatrician. Never guess the dosage.
✅ Maintain Gap Between Doses
Leave at least 4 to 6 hours between two doses. Never double the dose if you miss one.
✅ Read the Label
Check for expiry date, instructions, and ingredients. Some tablets already contain paracetamol along with other drugs—avoid combining unknowingly.
✅ Avoid Alcohol
Paracetamol and alcohol together increase liver toxicity. Stay away from drinks when taking Dolo.
✅ Store Safely
Keep medicines away from children. Accidental overdoses are more common than you think.
Who Should Avoid Dolo or Use It With Caution?
Certain groups must be extra cautious with Dolo:
Liver or kidney patients: Even a regular dose may be harmful.
Alcoholics: The combination can cause serious liver damage.
Pregnant women: Only use under strict medical advice.
Elderly people: Dosage should be adjusted based on liver and kidney function.
If you fall into any of these categories, never self-medicate with Dolo.
Final Thoughts: Break the Habit, Choose Health
Dolo may seem harmless, but the ongoing trend of Dolo overuse in India should concern everyone of us. A medicine meant to heal should not become a daily crutch.
If you feel sick, tired, or in pain, don’t treat Dolo like a quick fix. Treat your body with care. Visit a doctor. Understand the cause. Choose safe, informed medical practices.
India must shift from “popping pills” to promoting awareness and preventive healthcare. That’s the only way to avoid turning Cadbury Gems into capsules of silent harm.