test 7 acetaminophen

Question 1

Acetaminophen (Paracetamol, APAP, Tylenol, Tempra)

Answer 1

o not considered to be an NSAID.
o Its exact mechanism of action is not completely understood.
o It inhibits prostaglandin synthesis in the CNS. This explains its antipyretic (fever) and analgesic properties.
o Acetaminophen does not affect platelet function or bleeding time

Question 2

Acetaminophen effectiveness on COX activity

Answer 2

o Acetaminophen has less effect of COX activity in peripheral tissues due to inactivation. This accounts for its WEAK anti-inflammatory effects.

Question 3

Acetaminophen therapeutic uses

Answer 3

o It’s a suitable substitute for analgesic and antipyretic relief for those with GI complaint risk. Acetaminophen is the drug of choice for children with viral infections and chicken pox.

Question 4

Acetaminophen Pharmacokinetics

Answer 4

o Under normal conditions, acetaminophen is conjugated in the liver to form inactive metabolites.
o A small fraction is hydroxylated to form N-acetyl-p-benzoquinone imine (NAPQI), which is a reactive metabolite that can react with sulfhydryl groups and cause damage.
o At normal doses of acetaminophen, NAPQI reacts with the sulfhydryl groups of glutathione (anti-oxidant), forming a non-toxic metabolite.
- inhibits phospholipases

Question 5

large doses of acetaminophen

Answer 5

• glutathione levels in the liver become depleted, and NAPQI reacts with the sulfhydryl groups of liver proteins, causing necrosis.

Question 6

Patients with liver disease, viral hepatitis, or alcoholics and use of acetaminophen

Answer 6

• increased risk of acetaminophen induced

hepatotoxicity.