STEP 242: Acetaminophen (CE: 0.5)

Description:

Acetaminophen (N-a'cetyl paraaminophenol), used worldwide as 'an analgesic and antipyretic, is also known as paracetamol. It was made available for use in the 1950s. Since then, its popularity has increased dramatically as an over-the-counter drug. It is currently available singly or in combination with other pharmaceuticals in numerous preparations. The widespread use of acetaminophen in so many formulations for fever and pain relief has caused it to become one of the most common agents in drug poisoning and led to the recognition that it is a potential hepatotoxin when overdoses are taken. This article discusses the toxicity and hepatoxicity indicators of acetaminophen and discusses the treatment and laboratory tests for acetaminophen overdoses.

Learning Objectives:

• Discuss toxicity levels of acetaminophen
• Discuss hepatotoxicity indicators of acetaminophen
• Discuss treatment methods for hepatotoxicity

Author(s):

Agnes Marina S. Gaerlan, RMT

Launched: 2002