Acetaminophen (Paracetamol / Tylenol)

Question 1

Classification

Answer 1

Analgesic & Antipyretic

Question 2

Action

Answer 2

Inhibits prosaglandin synthesis. Therapeutic effect include reduction of pain and fever

Question 3

Indications

Answer 3

Mild to moderate pain ONLY.

Question 4

Contraindications (3)

Answer 4

• Known hypersensitivity or allergy
• Severe hepatic impairment or acute liver disease
• Do not administer if already taken within 4 hours,or cumlative daily dose reached

Question 5

Cautions (6)

Answer 5

• Renal disease
• Liver disease
• Alcoholism
• Chronic malnutrition
• Severe hypovolemia
• Hepatotoxic metabolities

Question 6

Side Effects (4)

Answer 6

Hepatoxicity
• Rash
• Hives
• Constipation

Question 7

Dosage

ADULTS

Answer 7

500mg - 1000mg PO
• May repeat once after 4 hours.
• Maximum 4000mg in 24 hours OR 1000mg - 2000mg in 24 hours if liver cirrhosis.

Question 8

Dosage

PEDIATRIC

Answer 8

• 15mg/kg (liquid)
• 500mg PO if weight 30 - 50kg.
• 1000mg PO if weight > 50kg.
– May repeat once after 4 hours (max 75mg/kg) OR 1gram in 24 hours.
• Do not exceed 5 doses/24hours in patient less than 12 years old

Question 9

Routes

Answer 9

Oral

Question 10

Onset

Answer 10

Approximately 40 minutes

Question 11

Elimentation

Answer 11

Metabolized by the liver, excreted by the kidneys