MSK (Paracetamol)

Question 1

Examples of drug (Paracetamol)

Answer 1

• Paracetamol

Question 2

Mechanism of action (Paracetamol)

Answer 2

• A weak cyclooxygenase enzyme (COX) inhibitor with selectivity for brain COX.
• It therefore lacks peripheral anti-inflammatory actions but is useful in increasing the threshold for nociceptive activation by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis and its effects centrally.

Question 3

Indications (Paracetamol)

Answer 3

• Mild to moderate pain relief

- Fever (anti-pyretic effect)

Question 4

Side effects (Paracetamol)

Answer 4

• Rash / blood disorders (rare)

Question 5

Important pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics (Paracetamol)

Answer 5

• Overdose must be avoided – severe liver damage can occur and can be fatal.
• Careful dosing in younger patients and patients with low body weight (reduce dose to 500mg 4-6 hourly, qid in patients <50kg)

Question 6

Patient information (Paracetamol)

Answer 6

• Take only the prescribed amount and be wary of other over-the-counter medications that may contain paracetamol.