Paracetamol

Question 1

What is the presentation of Paracetamol?

Answer 1

500mg tablets

120mg in 5mL oral liquid (24mg/mL)

Question 2

What is the pharmacology and action of Paracetamol?

Answer 2

An analgesic and antipyretic agent.
Action:
1. Unclear mechanism, believed to inhibit prostaglandin synthesis in the CNS

Question 3

List the PEI’s for Paracetamol.

Answer 3

1. Mild pain

2. Headache

Question 4

List the contraindications for Paracetamol.

Answer 4

1. Hypersensitivity
2. Children <1 month
3. Paracetamol already administered <4hrs
4. Total paracetamol intake within past 24hrs exceeding 4g (adults) or 60mg/kg (children)
5. Chest pain in suspected ACS

Question 5

List the precautions for Paracetamol.

Answer 5

1. Impaired hepatic function or liver disease
2. Elderly/frail
3. Malnourished

Question 6

List the side effects for Paracetamol.

Answer 6

1. Hypersensitivity rxns including severe skin rash (rare)

2. Haematological rxns (rare)

Question 7

What are the special notes regarding Paracetamol?

Answer 7

1. Often found in combination medicines OTC - carefully determine previous paracetamol dosage before admin.
2. Usual dose of paracetamol is 15mg/kg for children. The max. dose of 60mg/kg = 4 x 15mg/kg over 24hrs.
3. Hepatic damage is rare when paracetamol is taken at recommended dosages.
4. Paracetamol not indicated for treatment of fever.

Question 8

List the onset and duration of Paracetamol.

*Peak not listed

Answer 8

O: 30mins
D: 4hrs