PARACETAMOL
Background and Date of Approval
Paracetamol is an analgesic and antipyretic medication. It received FDA approval in 1951 for the treatment of pain and fever.
Uses
Paracetamol injection/infusion, tablets, oral suspension, and pediatric drops are used to relieve mild to moderate pain and to reduce fever. It is also used in combination with opioid analgesics to manage moderate to severe pain in adult and pediatric patients 2 years and older. It works by changing the way the body senses pain and by cooling the body. Paracetamol suppository are used to treat pain and high temperature (fever) in children from 1 to 5 years of age. They can be used in children who find it difficult to take paracetamol as tablets or syrup.
How is it administered?
Paracetamol injection/infusion: It will be given by infusion into your veins. Your physician will decide the dose and duration of the infusion based on your disease condition. Do not self-administer the injection. This will take over 15 minutes. Generally, it is given every 4 to 6 hours or as needed to relieve pain or reduce fever. Paracetamol tablet/oral suspension/syrup: Always take paracetamol as instructed by your doctor. Your doctor will decide the dose and duration of the treatment based on the disease condition and other factors. Do not overdose on the medicine. Paracetamol Suppository: This medicine is for rectal use only. Always use this medicine exactly as directed by the doctor. Your childâs bowels must be empty when you give them this medicine. If your child needs to go to the toilet, ensure they do it before you give them the suppository. Do not break the suppository before use. Push the suppository into your childâs back passage (rectum) with the pointed end first. Wash your hands before you give the suppository. Paracetamol pediatric oral drops: Always take paracetamol oral pediatric drops as instructed by your doctor. This medicine should be taken orally. Your doctor will decide the dose and duration of the treatment based on the disease condition and other factors. Do not overdose on the medicine. Do not touch the dropper.
Side Effects
The common side effects of Paracetamol are itchy skin, constipation, nausea, vomiting, headache, insomnia, and agitation. Other serious side effects are liver injury, pneumonitis, and severe skin reactions.
Warnings
Administration of Paracetamol in doses higher than recommended may result in hepatic injury, including the risk of liver failure and death. Use caution when administering this medicine in patients with the following conditions: hepatic impairment or active hepatic disease, in cases of alcoholism, chronic malnutrition, severe hypovolemia, or severe renal impairment. This medicine may cause severe allergic reactions
Precautions
Do not take Paracetamol if you are allergic to Paracetamol or any other ingredients and if you suffer from severe liver disease. Inform your physician if you have liver disease and kidney problems. Notify your physician if you suffer from alcohol abuse. This medicine can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding. However, inform your physician if you are pregnant or planning to get pregnant during the treatment
Word of Advice
Store the medicine away from light and excessive moisture. Keep it out of reach of children and pets. If you miss a dose, inform your healthcare professional immediately to reschedule. Paracetamol injection/infusion is administered intravenously through a needle placed in a vein. The medicine will be injected slowly over 15 minutes. A nurse or other healthcare provider will administer this medicine. Do not consume alcohol while taking this injection. Do not take this medicine for more than 10 days consecutively, unless directed by your doctor. This medicine is safe when administered in low doses during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Your doctor will conduct lab tests at regular visits to monitor the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.
References
Perfalgan 10mg/ml Solution for Infusion - Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) - (emc). www.medicines.org.uk. Published May 2021. Accessed May 16, 2023. https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/60/smpc Acetaminophen Injection - Highlights of Prescribing Information.; 2021. Accessed May 16, 2023. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2021/204957s000lbl.pdf KD Tripathi, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs and Antipyretics-Analgesics, 7th edition, 2013, 206-207. Goodman & Gilmanâs, The Pharmacological Basics of Therapeutics, Anti-inflammatory, Antipyretic, and Analgesic Agents; Pharmacotherapy of Gout, 12th edition, 2011, 982-984.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why would I need a paracetamol injection instead of the oral form?
Paracetamol injection is typically used when immediate and precise pain relief is required or when oral administration is not possible, such as in case of nausea or vomiting. The injection allows for direct delivery of the medication into the bloodstream, resulting in a faster onset of action.
What conditions can paracetamol syrup/oral suspension be used for?
paracetamol syrup/oral suspension can be used to relieve pain associated with headaches, toothaches, menstrual cramps, muscle aches, backaches, and minor aches and pains caused by common colds and flu. It is also used to reduce fever.
What if a child vomits after taking paracetamol syrup/oral suspension?
Do not give your child the same dose again if your child is sick (vomits) after having a dose of paracetamol tablets or syrup. Wait until it's time for their next dose, or ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Does paracetamol syrup/oral suspension make babies sleepy?
It is a medicine to help reduce pain and make children with fever feel better. It will not cause drowsiness or cause your child to sleep.
How often can paracetamol suppositories be used?
The frequency of paracetamol suppository administration depends on factors such as the individual's age, weight, and the severity of the treated condition. It is important to adhere to the recommended dosage and interval as a healthcare provider instructs.
Can I take Paracetamol tablets if I'm allergic to aspirin?
Paracetamol tablets can be safely used in individuals who are allergic to aspirin or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), but it is not the exact alternative for the medicine. Talk with your healthcare provider before consuming this medicine.