I'm sure things have changed a bit in the last few years.
Paracetamol is acetaminophen, aka Tylenol. It upsets my stomach and is known to cause liver damage in large doses. I don't take it, but you can get it readily here. Why is it restricted in the UK?
I'm dull. I prefer aspirin. Some people can't take it because of associated stomach bleeding. I chew it before swallowing, but I don't mind the flavor, so I suspect that helps. It isn't given to babies or small children because of the potential danger of Rye's syndrome.
As for not being able to sleep? I just get up and read, drink herbal tea, and go back to bed when I am tired.