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 pain

Question 3

Contraindications of Paracetamol?

(ACHAT)

Answer 3

• Hypersensitivity
• Age <1 month
• Chest pain in ACS
• Administered in the last 4 hours
• Total dose exceeded of 4g or 60mg/kg in the last 24hours

Question 4

Cautions of Paracetamol?

Answer 4

• Hepatic/Renal dysfunction
• Elderly or Frail
• Malnourished

Question 5

Side Effects of Paracetamol?

Answer 5

• Hypersensitivity reactions including severe skin rash (rare)
• Haematological reaction (rare)

Question 6

Dosing Regimes of Paracetamol?

Answer 6

Adults
- 1g PO, single dose only

Paeds
- 15mg/kg PO, single dose only

Question 7

Onset and duration of Paracetamol?

Answer 7

• Onset = 30 minutes
• Duration = 4 hours