Paracetamol

Question 1

What are the brand names of paracetamol?

Answer 1

• (Panadol)

* (Calpol)

Question 2

What is the method of action of paracetamol?

Answer 2

• Poorly understood
• Weak inhibitor of COX, specifically COX-2
• = ↓ prostaglandin metabolism
• Prostaglandins can work on the thermoregulatory region of the hypothalamus and cause fever

Question 3

What are the indications for paracetamol?

Answer 3

• First line analgesia for acute and chronic pain

* Fever

Question 4

What are the contraindications for paracetamol?

Answer 4

• Risk of liver toxicity e.g. chronic alcohol use, malnutrition, low body weight - ↓ dose
• Severe hepatic impairment

Question 5

What are the side effects of paracetamol?

Answer 5

• Liver failure – in overdose

[see notes for paracetamol metabolism)

Question 6

What drugs interact with paracetamol?

Answer 6

• Cytochrome P450 inducers i.e. phenytoin, carbamazepine - ↑ risk of lver toxicity after overdose

Question 7

What organ eliminates paracetamol?

Answer 7

Kidney

Question 8

What information should be given to a patient taking paracetamol?

Answer 8

• Effects should be felt around 30 minutes after taking it

* Do not take more than 1 product at a time with paracetamol