Paracetamol

Question 1

Pharmacology and presentation of Paracetamol?

Answer 1

500mg Tablet,120mg/5ml Elixir

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

Question 2

Indicators of Paracetamol?

Answer 2

• Mild to moderate pain
• Fever causing distress.

Question 3

Contraindications of Paracetamol?
-1AI

Answer 3

• Known allergy
• Age <1 month
• Ischaemic chest pain.

Question 4

Cautions of Paracetamol
- LEM

Answer 4

• Liver dysfunction
• Elderly or Frail
• Malnourished.

Question 5

Side Effects of Paracetamol?
- RNR

Answer 5

• Nausea
• Skin rash (rare)
• Haematological reaction (rare).

Question 6

Dosing Regimes of Paracetamol?

Answer 6

Adults
- 500mg-1g PO, single dose only

Paeds
- 15mg/kg PO rounded to nearest ml, single dose only

Question 7

Onset and duration of Paracetamol?

Answer 7

• Onset = 10–60 minutes
• Duration = 4 hours