Paracetamol

Question 1

Indications for paracetamol

Answer 1

1. Mild pain - Usually in combination with ibuprofen
2. Moderate pain - in conjunction with other medicines
3. Severe pain - may be administered in conjunction with other medication. Paracetamol is not a priority in this setting but will enhance the quality of pain relief and reduce the need for subsequent analgesia

Question 2

Contraindications for paracetamol

Answer 2

Known severe allergy

Question 3

Cautions for paracetamol

Answer 3

1. Has taken paracetamol in the last 4 hours
2. Abdominal pain, particularly if very unwell or vomiting
3. Known severe liver disease.

Question 4

Dosage (paracetamol)

Answer 4

1.5g PO for an adult weighing more than 80kg
1g PO for an adult weighing 80kg or less

Question 5

Mechanism of action for paracetamol

Answer 5

1. Paracetamol is an antipyretic analgesic
2. Paracetamol inhibits prostaglandin synthesis - reducing pain and fever

Question 6

Pharmacokinetics of paracetamol

Answer 6

1. Paracetamol is metabolised in the liver
2. Severe liver impairment will significantly delay clearance