In a light-hearted but thought-provoking remark, US-based Indian doctor Palaniappan Manickam said in a recent video,
“India is eating Dolo 650 like Cadbury Gems!”
While the statement made many laugh, it also sparked curiosity — why is DOLO 650 such a household staple in India? Is it safe to pop one every time we feel feverish?
Let’s decode this “Dolo craze.”
What Is DOLO 650 Anyway?
DOLO 650 is a brand name for paracetamol (650 mg) — a widely-used analgesic and antipyretic (pain and fever reliever). It’s used to treat:
- Fever
- Headaches
- Body aches
- Mild to moderate pain
It became especially popular during the COVID-19 pandemic, when doctors across India prescribed it as the go-to pill for fever and viral symptoms.
The Origins: Where is Dolo 650 Made?
Dolo 650 is manufactured by Micro Labs Limited, an Indian pharmaceutical company headquartered in Bengaluru, Karnataka. The tablet contains 650mg of paracetamol (acetaminophen) and is mainly used to treat fever, body ache, and mild to moderate pain.
While paracetamol is globally recognized, Dolo 650 as a brand is mostly distributed and consumed in India. It is not widely used or even known by this name in countries like the US, UK, or Australia.
The Global Picture: What Do Other Countries Use?
Globally, people rely on different brand names for the same generic compound:
-
USA: Tylenol (by Johnson & Johnson)
-
UK: Panadol or Calpol
-
Australia: Panamax or Herron Paracetamol
-
Europe: Doliprane (France), Efferalgan, Paralen
In these countries, brand loyalty is not as emotional, and OTC drug choices are often driven by marketing, doctor recommendations, or simply what’s available in pharmacies.
How Did DOLO 650 Become a Household Name?
A few reasons:
COVID-19 Boost: The pandemic made Dolo a household name — easy to access, doctor-recommended, and generally safe.
Strong Branding: Among many paracetamol brands, DOLO 650 stood out with consistent marketing and trust.
Cultural Habit: In India, we often self-medicate. A slight fever? Pop a DOLO. Headache? DOLO again.
Easily Available: You can find DOLO at every pharmacy — no prescription needed.
Should We Be Worried About Overuse?
Yes — even though paracetamol is considered safe, overuse can be harmful, especially to the liver. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Safe dose: Maximum 4,000 mg/day for adults (that’s 6 tablets of DOLO 650)
- Exceeding this regularly can damage the liver
- Avoid mixing it with alcohol or other medications that affect the liver
- Don’t treat it like candy — even if it feels harmless
So, Is the Doctor Wrong?
Not at all. Dr. Manickam’s statement is more of a wake-up call — reminding us that while DOLO 650 is helpful, mindless overuse is not.
He’s known for mixing humour with health education, and this remark is just another example of getting people to talk about their habits.
Bottom Line: Use, Don’t Abuse
DOLO 650 is not evil. It’s effective, safe when used correctly, and sometimes necessary. But turning it into a daily “go-to” without medical guidance? That’s where the problem starts.
So next time you feel a little off — maybe try rest, hydration, and check in with your doctor… instead of reaching for a DOLO like it’s a pack of Gems!
