Acetaminophen

Acetaminophen, also known as paracetamol, is a medication used for the treatment of pain and fever.  Acetaminophen works by inhibition of central prostaglandin synthesis, which reduces fever and pain.  Acetaminophen does not have any peripheral anti-inflammatory effects. Side effects are generally mild; however, in overdose, resulting liver failure can be deadly if not treated appropriately.

Class Drugs

• Acetaminophen

Class Mechanism of Action

Inhibition of central prostaglandin synthesis

Class Applications

Antipyretic

Analgesic

• No significant peripheral anti-inflammatory effects

Class Adverse Effects

Minimal adverse effects at therapeutic doses

Hepatotoxic in overdose

• Acetaminophen is metabolized to NAPQI (N-acetyl-p-benzoquinoneimine), which in normal circumstances reacts with glutathione and forms a non-toxic metabolite

• In overdose, glutathione is depleted and the toxic NAPQI causes hepatocyte damage and can lead to liver failure

• Antidote: N-acetylcysteine - a precursor to glutathione, that replenishes glutathione levels.

Pain medication of choice in pregnancy

Drug Table

Drug Name	Application	Comments	Image
Acetaminophen			"Seat" "Minion" "Fence"