classification: analgesics, muscle relaxants and uricosurics
other name: acetaminophen
brands: Biogesic,Calpol, Tempra, ...
decreases fever by inhibiting the effects of pyrogens on the hypothalamic heat regulation centers and by hypothalamic action leading to sweating and vasodilation.
relieves pain by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis at the CNS but does not have anti-inflammatory action because of its minimal effect on peripheral prostaglandin synthesis.
indication: relief of mild-to-moderate pain; treatment of fever
contraindication: hypersensitivity; intolerance to tartrazine (yellow dye #5), alcohol, table sugar, saccharin
precaution: patients with impaired kidney or liver function. Patients with alcohol dependence.
Adverse reaction: stimulation, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, hepatotoxicity, hepatic seizure(overdose), renal failure(high, prolonged doses), leukopenia, neutropenia, hemolytic anemia(long term use), thrombocytopenia, pancytopenia, rash, urticaria, hypersensitivty, cyanosis, anemia, jaundice, CNS stimulation, delirium followed by vascular collapse, convulsions, coma, death.
toxicity may be increased by hepatoxic drugs or drugs that induce liver microsomal enzymes.
absorption may be accelerated by metoclopramide.
excretion may be affected and plasma concentrations altered when administered with probenicid.
absorption may be reduced by cholestyramine if given within an hour of paracetamol administration