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Paracetamol Drug Study

to reduce body temperature

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Ed King Cubalan
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60 views3 pages

Paracetamol Drug Study

to reduce body temperature

Uploaded by

Ed King Cubalan
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Paracetamol Drug Study

Generic Name:

Paracetamol (also known as Acetaminophen in the United States and Canada)

Brand Names:

Tylenol, Panadol, Calpol

Drug Classification:

 Analgesic (pain reliever)

 Antipyretic (fever reducer)

Mechanism of Action:

The exact mechanism of action of paracetamol is not completely understood. It is believed to involve the
inhibition of the enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX), primarily in the central nervous system, leading to a
decrease in the synthesis of prostaglandins, which play a key role in pain and fever. Unlike NSAIDs,
paracetamol does not have significant anti-inflammatory properties.

Indications:

Paracetamol is used to treat a variety of conditions, including:

 Mild to moderate pain (e.g., headaches, toothaches, menstrual cramps, muscle aches)

 Fever

 Osteoarthritis

 Cold and flu symptoms

Dosage and Administration:

Adults:

 Typical dosage is 500 mg to 1000 mg every 4 to 6 hours as needed.

 Maximum daily dose should not exceed 4000 mg.

Pediatrics:

 Dosage is typically 10-15 mg/kg every 4 to 6 hours as needed.

 Maximum daily dose should not exceed 60 mg/kg.

Pharmacokinetics:

 Absorption: Rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract.

 Distribution: Widely distributed throughout the body, including the brain.


 Metabolism: Primarily metabolized in the liver via conjugation to form inactive glucuronide and
sulfate conjugates.

 Excretion: Excreted mainly via the urine. The half-life is approximately 2 to 3 hours.

Side Effects:

Common side effects are rare but may include:

 Nausea

 Vomiting

 Rash

 Headache

Serious side effects, though rare, may include:

 Hepatotoxicity (liver damage) with overdose

 Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis)

 Stevens-Johnson syndrome

 Toxic epidermal necrolysis

Contraindications:

 Known allergy to paracetamol or any of its components

 Severe hepatic impairment or active liver disease

Precautions:

 Use with caution in patients with hepatic impairment or chronic alcohol use, as they are at
increased risk of hepatotoxicity.

 Avoid exceeding the recommended dose, particularly in patients with liver disease or those
consuming alcohol.

Interactions:

 Warfarin: May enhance the anticoagulant effect of warfarin with prolonged use.

 Alcohol: Increases the risk of liver damage.

 Other hepatotoxic drugs: Increased risk of liver damage when combined with other hepatotoxic
medications.

Monitoring:

 Liver function tests in patients with hepatic impairment or those on prolonged therapy.

 Monitoring for signs of overdose, such as nausea, vomiting, sweating, and confusion.
Patient Education:

 Take paracetamol exactly as prescribed, and do not exceed the recommended dose.

 Avoid concurrent use of multiple medications containing paracetamol to prevent overdose.

 Limit or avoid alcohol consumption while taking paracetamol.

 Seek immediate medical attention in case of overdose, as early treatment is critical.

 Inform your healthcare provider of any other medications you are taking, including over-the-
counter drugs and supplements.

Conclusion:

Paracetamol is a widely used analgesic and antipyretic that is generally well-tolerated and effective for
relieving mild to moderate pain and reducing fever. Patients should be aware of the potential for liver
damage, particularly with overdose or chronic use. Adherence to dosage instructions and monitoring for
adverse effects are essential to ensure safe and effective use.

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