Paracetamol
Synonym(s)
Acetaminophen
DefinitionThis section has been translated automatically.
Very frequently used, suitable analgesic (basic analgesic) and antipyretic. Paracetamol is one of the weak peripheral analgesics which are not organ-damaging if dose limits are observed and which have a more favourable side effect profile in comparison with other non-opioids (see below anti-inflammatory, non-steroidal; COX-2 inhibitors see below Coxibe, Metamizole). Due to the favourable ratios of benefit and tolerability, it is therefore to be regarded as a non-opioid of first choice.
Pharmacodynamics (Effect)This section has been translated automatically.
The active metabolite is acetaminophen. Fever-reducing and pain-inhibiting effect, presumably by inhibition of the prostaglandin synthesis. The enhancement of the effect of coumarins is also being discussed (the mechanism is not yet fully known).
IndicationThis section has been translated automatically.
Slight to moderate pain, fever.
Dosage and method of useThis section has been translated automatically.
Depending on age and body weight, usually 10-15 mg/kg bw as single dose, up to 50 mg/kg bw as total daily dose.
Undesirable effectsThis section has been translated automatically.
Rarely drug exanthema, angioneurotic edema. Muscle pain, headache, hyperhidrosis, nausea, bronchospasm in predisposed patients, rarely hypotension, thombo- or leucopenia.
Isolated, severe cases of Stevens-Johnson syndrome and TEN resulting in death have been reported (according to the FDA report, 67 hospitalizations and 12 deaths occurred between 1969 and 2012).
Acute overdose (> 10 g in adults) may cause severe liver damage. Chronic ingestion may lead to kidney damage.
ContraindicationThis section has been translated automatically.
Known genetic glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency, paragroup allergy: hypersensitivity to para-hydroxy-benzoic acid esters.
PreparationsThis section has been translated automatically.
Ben-u-ron, Captin, Mono Praecimed, Paedialgon, Paracetamol-ratiopharm, Perfalgan
Note(s)This section has been translated automatically.
Remember! Antidote for overdose / intoxication is acetylcysteine in high doses.
LiteratureThis section has been translated automatically.
- Jage J (2009) Key questions on the therapy of postoperative pain. Georg Thieme Publishing House, Stuttgart S.16-21
- Panorama (dermatologist) 2013: Dangerous skin reactions to paracetamol. Dermatologist 64: 633
- Suwarsa O et al(2016) Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis in Dr. Hasan Sadikin General Hospital Bandung, Indonesia from 2009-2013 Asia Pac Allergy6: 43-47.