Pim-800 vs Other Pain Relievers Comparison Tool
Recommended Medication
Medication Comparison
| Medication | Onset | Duration | Best For | Side Effects | Price (NZ$) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pim-800 (Paracetamol) | 30-60 min | 4-6 hrs | Pain & fever | Liver risk with overdose | $4.90 |
| Ibuprofen | 20-40 min | 6-8 hrs | Pain & inflammation | Stomach upset | $5.30 |
| Aspirin | 30-60 min | 4-6 hrs | Pain & anti-platelet | Bleeding risk | $3.80 |
| Naproxen | 60-90 min | 8-12 hrs | Pain & arthritis | GI upset | $6.20 |
Important Note: Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new medication, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions or take other medications.
Quick Takeaways
- Pim-800 is a standard 500mg paracetamol tablet widely available in NewZealand.
- Ibuprofen, aspirin and naproxen work by reducing inflammation, while paracetamol mainly lowers pain and fever.
- Onset of relief: paracetamol 30‑60min, ibuprofen 20‑40min, naproxen 60‑90min, aspirin 30‑60min.
- Side‑effect profile: paracetamol is gentler on the stomach but risky for the liver at high doses; NSAIDs can cause gastric irritation and affect kidneys.
- Price per standard pack (NZ$) in 2025: Pim-800 $4.90, ibuprofen $5.30, aspirin $3.80, naproxen $6.20.
When you reach for a painkiller, the choice isn’t always obvious. Pim-800 is a brand of paracetamol that’s been on NewZealand shelves for decades. This article breaks down how Pim-800 stacks up against the most common over‑the‑counter alternatives - ibuprofen, aspirin, naproxen and the generic acetaminophen - so you can pick the right one for your headache, muscle ache or fever.
What is Pim-800?
Pim-800 is a 500mg tablet of paracetamol, marketed by a local pharmaceutical distributor. It’s considered a “baseline” analgesic because it works well for mild‑to‑moderate pain and is safe for most adults when taken as directed.
Paracetamol (known as acetaminophen in the United States) belongs to the class of analgesics and antipyretics. It acts centrally in the brain to inhibit the enzyme cyclooxygenase‑3 (COX‑3), which reduces the perception of pain and lowers body temperature. Unlike NSAIDs, it does not significantly block peripheral prostaglandin production, so it lacks strong anti‑inflammatory effects.
How Paracetamol Differs From NSAIDs
Non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as Ibuprofen, Aspirin and Naproxen block cyclooxygenase‑1 and ‑2 (COX‑1/2) enzymes throughout the body. This provides both pain relief and inflammation reduction, but also raises the risk of gastric irritation, bleeding, and renal strain, especially with long‑term use.
Paracetamol’s liver‑centric metabolism means the main safety concern is hepatotoxicity. The recommended maximum for a healthy adult is 4g per day (eight 500mg tablets). Exceeding this, especially with alcohol, can cause serious liver damage.
Side‑Effect Profiles At a Glance
- Pim-800 (Paracetamol): rare skin reactions, potential liver injury if overdosed.
- Ibuprofen: stomach upset, increased blood pressure, kidney impairment with chronic use.
- Aspirin: gastrointestinal bleeding, Reye’s syndrome risk in children, platelet inhibition.
- Naproxen: similar GI issues to ibuprofen but longer half‑life; may worsen asthma.
- Acetaminophen (generic): identical profile to Pim-800.
Direct Comparison Table
| Attribute | Pim-800 (Paracetamol) | Ibuprofen | Aspirin | Naproxen |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical Dose | 500mg every 4‑6h (max 4g/24h) | 200‑400mg every 6‑8h (max 1.2g/24h) | 300mg every 4‑6h (max 4g/24h) | 220‑440mg every 8‑12h (max 660mg/24h) |
| Onset of Relief | 30‑60min | 20‑40min | 30‑60min | 60‑90min |
| Duration of Action | 4‑6h | 6‑8h | 4‑6h | 8‑12h |
| Main Use | Pain & fever (no inflammation) | Pain, inflammation, fever | Pain, anti‑platelet, fever | Pain, inflammation, arthritis |
| Common Side Effects | Liver enzyme rise (rare) | Stomach upset, heartburn | Bleeding, stomach irritation | GI upset, dizziness |
| Key Contraindications | Severe liver disease, alcohol abuse | Peptic ulcer, kidney disease, heart failure | Bleeding disorders, children with viral illness | Severe liver/kidney disease, asthma |
| Typical NZ$ Price (30‑tablet pack) | 4.90 | 5.30 | 3.80 | 6.20 |
When to Choose Pim‑800 Over an NSAID
If your pain is not linked to swelling-think tension headache, mild fever, or a simple toothache-paracetamol is often the safest bet. It won’t aggravate a stomach ulcer and has a low interaction risk with blood thinners.
People with chronic kidney disease, heart failure, or a history of gastrointestinal bleeding should avoid NSAIDs and stay with paracetamol, provided their liver function is normal.
For febrile children over six months, paracetamol (or its pediatric formulation) is the preferred antipyretic; aspirin is contraindicated because of Reye’s syndrome.
When an NSAID Might Be a Better Fit
Inflammatory conditions-like sprained ankles, menstrual cramps, or osteoarthritis-respond better to drugs that curb prostaglandin production. Ibuprofen’s relatively quick onset makes it a go‑to for sports injuries, while naproxen’s longer half‑life is handy for chronic joint pain that needs steady coverage.
Aspirin still has a niche role for cardiovascular protection at low doses (75‑100mg), but that’s a prescription‑level decision and not a pain‑relief comparison.
Combining Paracetamol with Codeine: A Special Case
In NewZealand, a combination product of paracetamol 500mg and codeine 30mg is available by prescription for moderate to severe pain. Codeine adds an opioid component, enhancing analgesia but also bringing risks of dependence and constipation.
Always follow the prescriber’s guidance and never exceed the paracetamol ceiling, even when using the combination.
Pricing and Availability in 2025
Retail pharmacy chains such as LifePharmacy, Unichem and the online platform Healthpoint stock Pim‑800 in 30‑tablet packs for around NZ$4.90. Generic paracetamol tablets are usually a bit cheaper (≈NZ$3.80 for 30pcs), but brand loyalty and perceived quality keep Pim‑800 popular.
Ibuprofen and naproxen are priced slightly higher due to larger tablet size and slower release formulations. Bulk purchases (packs of 100) reduce unit cost by roughly 15%.
Decision Checklist - Pick the Right Painkiller
- Is inflammation a major factor? → Choose NSAID (ibuprofen or naproxen).
- Do you have a history of stomach ulcers or kidney disease? → Paracetamol (Pim‑800) is safer.
- Are you taking blood thinners or have bleeding risk? → Avoid aspirin; paracetamol preferred.
- Need rapid relief for a sports injury? → Ibuprofen works fastest.
- Looking for long‑lasting control of chronic arthritis? → Naproxen’s 12‑hour window helps.
- Concerned about liver health and alcohol use? → Keep total paracetamol <4g/day and limit alcohol.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take Pim‑800 with alcohol?
Occasional light drinking (<2 drinks) is unlikely to cause problems if you stay well below the 4g daily limit. Heavy or regular alcohol consumption dramatically raises the risk of liver injury, so it’s best to avoid mixing the two.
Is it safe to give Pim‑800 to children?
Pim‑800 is formulated for adults. For kids, use a pediatric paracetamol suspension with dosing based on weight (typically 15mg/kg per dose, max 60mg/kg/24h). Never give the 500mg tablet to a child.
How does naproxen’s duration compare to ibuprofen?
Naproxen lasts about 8‑12hours, so you usually need only two doses a day. Ibuprofen’s effect tapers after 6‑8hours, meaning you may take it three to four times daily for constant relief.
Can I combine Pim‑800 with ibuprofen for stronger pain control?
Yes, the two can be staggered (e.g., paracetamol every 6h and ibuprofen every 8h) because they work via different pathways. Keep each within its maximum daily dose and consult a pharmacist if you have kidney or heart issues.
What should I do if I accidentally take too many Pim‑800 tablets?
Seek medical help immediately. Overdose can lead to acute liver failure. If you’re within two hours of the last dose, a poison‑control centre may advise activated charcoal. Early treatment improves outcomes.
Bottom Line
Choosing between Pim‑800 and other over‑the‑counter options boils down to the nature of your pain, your health background, and how quickly you need relief. For fever, tension headaches or when a gentle stomach is essential, Pim‑800 is a solid, affordable choice. If swelling, joint pain, or rapid onset matters, reach for ibuprofen or naproxen-just watch the gastrointestinal and kidney warnings.
Always read the label, respect the maximum daily dose, and talk to a pharmacist if you’re unsure which option fits your health profile.
3 Comments
Jayant Paliwal October 8 2025
First, let us consider the pharmacodynamics of paracetamol-its central COX‑3 inhibition is subtle, yet clinically significant; second, the comparative onset times listed in the article warrant a meticulous critique, as the 30‑60 minute window for Pim‑800 may be optimistic for certain patient populations. Moreover, the hepatic safety profile, while generally favorable, cannot be dismissed when one examines the cumulative dose‑dependent risk of hepatotoxicity-especially in patients with concurrent alcohol consumption or pre‑existing liver disease! In contrast, the NSAIDs such as ibuprofen, despite their faster onset, introduce gastro‑intestinal and renal variables that complicate therapeutic decisions. Therefore, the author’s recommendation matrix should incorporate stratified risk assessments, not merely a one‑size‑fits‑all table; indeed, a nuanced algorithm would better serve clinicians seeking precision. Finally, pricing, though seemingly marginal, influences adherence patterns in the New Zealand market, and thus deserves a deeper socioeconomic analysis.
Kamal ALGhafri October 16 2025
While the data presented is thorough, the omission of pediatric dosing nuances in the comparison could mislead caregivers; a brief note on weight‑based adjustments would have enhanced the utility of the guide.
Gulam Ahmed Khan October 23 2025
Great rundown! 😊 The clear tables make it easy to pick the right pill for a headache versus a sprain, and I especially appreciate the warning about liver risk with excess paracetamol.