Acetaminophen

Question 1

Classification

Answer 1

Analgesic, Other

Question 2

Mechanism of Action

Answer 2

• Acts on hypothalamus to produce antipyresis. May work peripherally to block pain impulse generation; may also inhibit prostaglandin synthesis in CNS.

Question 3

Indications

Answer 3

• Analgesia
• Fever > 100.4

Question 4

Contraindications

Answer 4

• Patient has taken it within the last 4 hours.
• Patient <3 months
• Hypersensitivity
• Severe active liver disease

Question 5

Adverse Effects

Answer 5

• Anaphylaxis/anaphylactoid
• Hepatotoxicity
• Anemia
• Thrombocytopenia

Question 6

Administration

Answer 6

• Adult: 15-20 mg/kg, or 325-1000 mg PO, do not exceed 3250 mg/day. 650 mg for muscoskelatal trauma
• Peds: Weight based