Acetaminophen

INTRODUCTION

Acetaminophen, or paracetamol, is a commonly used drug for pain relief and fever reduction. It is generally safe at proper doses and is widely used in both adults and children. However, an overdose may cause liver toxicity. This paper outlines its medical uses, action mechanism, and safety profile.

Mechanism Of Action

The exact mechanism of acetaminophen is not fully understood. However, it is believed to act mainly in the central nervous system by inhibiting the cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, especially a variant known as COX-3. This reduces the production of prostaglandins involved in pain and fever. Unlike NSAIDs, it does not significantly inhibit COX enzymes in peripheral tissues, which explains its lack of anti-inflammatory effects. It may also affect serotonin and cannabinoid pathways, contributing to its analgesic action.

Panadol

Tylenol

Perfalgan (IV form)

Adol

INDECATIONS

Acetaminophen is used to relieve mild to moderate pain from headaches, muscle aches, menstrual periods, colds and sore throats, toothaches, backaches, reactions to vaccinations (shots), and to reduce fever. Acetaminophen may also be used to relieve the pain of osteoarthritis (arthritis caused by the breakdown of the lining of the joints). Acetaminophen is in a class of medications called analgesics (pain relievers) and antipyretics (fever reducers). It works by changing the way the body senses pain and by cooling the body.

If someone takes more than the recommended dose of acetaminophen, seek immediate medical attention, even if no symptoms are present.

Possible Symptoms of Overdose Include:

(Nausea-Vomiting-Loss of appetite-Sweating-Extreme tiredness-Unusual bleeding or bruising-Pain in the upper right part of the stomach-Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)-Flu-like symptoms)