EMT Pharmacology - Paracetamol

Question 1

Pharmacology and presentation of Paracetamol?

Answer 1

500mg Tablet, or 50mg/ml syrup

Inhibits the production of prostaglandins resulting in a reduction of pain and fever

Question 2

Indicators of Paracetamol?

Answer 2

• Mild pain (usually combined with other medications)
• Can be administered with other analgesics in moderate to severe pain particularly during long transports, to reduce the need of subsequent analgesia and improve pain relief.

Question 3

Contraindications of Paracetamol?

Answer 3

• Known severe allergy

Question 4

Cautions of Paracetamol?

Answer 4

• Paracetamol taken within the last 4hrs, unless less than the ambulance prescribed dose
• Abdominal pain particularly if unwell or vomiting
• Known severe liver disease

Question 5

Side Effects of Paracetamol?

Answer 5

• None

Question 6

Dosing Regimes of Paracetamol?

Answer 6

• 1.5g for Adults above 80kg, 1g for less than 80kg

Paediatrics

• <1year (5kg) = 75mg syrup
• 1year (10kg) = 150mg syrup
• 2-5 years (20kg) = 250mg syrup and tablet
• 6-10 years (30kg) = 375mg syrup or 250mg tablet
• 11-13 years (40kg) = 500mg syrup and tablet

Question 7

Onset and duration of Paracetamol?

Answer 7

Onset
‐ 30 to 60 mins

Duration
- 4 to 6 hours