Acetaminophen

Question 1

Drug Class

Acetaminophen

Answer 1

Nonopioid analgesic,
antipyretic

Question 2

Indications and Contraindications

Acetaminophen

Answer 2

Indications: Pain control, fever control

Contraindications: Severe active liver disease

Question 3

Adverse reactions/ Side effects & Drug Interactions

Acetaminophen

Answer 3

Adverse Rxns and Side Effects: Nausea, upper abdominal pain, skin rash, itching, loss of appetite, overdoses can cause hepatotoxicity.

Interactions: Increased effect with caffeine, decreased effect with antacids, anticholinergics, carbamazepine, phenytoin

Question 4

Dosage and Administration
(Adults and Pediatric)

Acetaminophen

Answer 4

Adult: Give 15mg/kg orally; max dose 1g

Pediatric: Febrile Seizues: Give 15 mg/kg, max dose 650 mg via PR/IV/IO or orally if able to swallow

Question 5

Duration of Action

Acetaminophen

Answer 5

Onset: 10-30 minutes, Peak: 30-60 minutes, Duration: 4-6 hours

Question 6

Special Considerations

Acetaminophen

Answer 6

Pregnancy Safety: Category B

Does not have significant anti-inflammatory or antiplatelet effects

FDA limited dose to 325mg when combined with other drugs