A gastroenterologist’s cheeky comparison of Dolo-650 to Cadbury Gems highlights India’s growing pill-popping culture, prompting experts to warn against overuse of paracetamol.
April 16, 2025: Dolo-650, one of India’s most commonly used over-the-counter paracetamol tablets, has found itself at the center of a viral discussion—thanks to a doctor’s witty observation. Dr. Palaniappan Manickam, a U.S.-based gastroenterologist and health educator, took to social media and remarked, “Indians are eating Dolo-650 like Cadbury Gems,” referencing the candy beloved by children across the country.
His comment, meant to humorously reflect the widespread use of the tablet, has gone viral, prompting a conversation around India’s casual and frequent use of medication—particularly paracetamol.
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📈 The Dolo-650 Phenomenon
Dolo-650 became a household name during the COVID-19 pandemic when it was widely recommended to alleviate post-vaccine symptoms and fever. With a formulation of 650 mg of paracetamol, it’s frequently prescribed for headaches, mild pain, and fevers.
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Health professionals acknowledge the tablet’s effectiveness and relative safety when used in moderation. However, experts are also raising concerns about the unchecked overuse of the drug, especially when taken without proper medical consultation.
💊 A Culture of Overconsumption?
India’s inclination to self-medicate has long been noted, but the scale of Dolo-650’s popularity is staggering. According to a Forbes report, its manufacturer, Micro Labs, sold over 350 crore tablets since the start of the pandemic, raking in ₹400 crore in a single year.
Prior to COVID-19, the company sold about 7.5 crore strips annually. That number jumped to 9.4 crore in 2020, and by the end of 2021, it had surged to 14.5 crore strips—nearly double the pre-pandemic figures.
⚠️ Health Experts Caution
While the comparison to candy may be tongue-in-cheek, health professionals warn that frequent use of paracetamol—especially without monitoring dosage—can lead to serious liver damage. They urge people to follow medical guidance and avoid using painkillers as a default solution for minor ailments.
“It’s important to treat medicine with the respect it deserves. Even commonly available pills like Dolo-650 can be harmful if misused,” said a senior pharmacologist.
As the tweet continues to trend, the conversation has sparked a larger reflection on India’s healthcare habits and the need for better awareness about responsible medication use.
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Dolo 650, paracetamol in India, pill-popping culture, Indian healthcare habits, viral tweets India, Micro Labs, Covid-19 medicine, self-medication, health awareness, liver health, over-the-counter drugs, India pharma