What group of drug does paracetamol belong to and what is its indications?
It is a widely used analgesic and anti-pyretic, specifically a synthetic non-opioid.
Mild to moderate pains eg headache, earache, toothache and high temperatures.
What are common side effects of paracetamol?
Adverse effects are uncommon. some may experience mild nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, drowsiness or stomach pain.
Paracetamol is very dangerous in overdoses, it is associated with liver damage.
What is absorption like for paracetamol?
Absorption primarily occurs in the small intestine through passive diffusion.
Oral - high bioavailability
IV - 100% bioavailability bypassing the absorption phase
Rectal - slower, unpredictable absorption
What is distribution like for paracetamol?
Paracetamol is homogenously distributed throughout the body fluids and tissues.
What is metabolism like for paracetamol?
Paracetamol is primarily metabolized by the liver using conjugation with glucuronic acid and sulfuric acid.
This produces inactive, non-toxic metabolites that are then excreted by the kidneys.
What is excretion like for paracetamol?
It is primarily excreted by the kidneys into urine. Around 95% is excreted as inactive metabolites, while less than 5% is excreted unchanged.
What is paracetamols mechanism of action?
It is not fully understood but is thought to inhibit COX enzymes specifically in the CNS.
In what routes and formulations is paracetamol available ?
• Oral - tablets, capsules, liquids
• Rectal - suppositories
• IV - solution for infusion
What is the half life and dosing interval like for paracetamol?
A short half life around 2-2.5 hours
It is administered every 4-6 hours to maintain therapeutic, effective levels while preventing toxic drug accumulation
