Acetaminophen Fundamentals Flashcards

Study Notes

Acetaminophen Overview

Trade name is Tylenol.
Classified as a nonsalicylate, paracetamol derivative, functioning as an antipyretic and nonopioid analgesic.
Pregnancy category B indicating safe use during pregnancy.

Black Box Warning

Associated with severe liver injury and severe allergic reactions.
Symptoms include angioedema, difficulty breathing, itching, or rash.

Dosage Information

Recommended for patients aged 12 and older: 650mg every 4-6 hours.
Maximum dosage is 3,250mg within a 24-hour period.

Pharmacokinetics

Onset of action varies among patients.
Peak effects occur within 1-3 hours after administration.
Duration of action ranges from 3-8 hours.

Indications for Use

Effective for mild to moderate pain relief, including headaches, muscle aches, backaches, minor arthritis, common colds, toothaches, and menstrual cramps.
Also used to reduce fever.

Pre-Assessment Considerations

Requires a comprehensive health history, including allergies and current medications (prescription and OTC).
Evaluate vital signs, weight, and relevant laboratory findings.
Assess the patient’s ability to follow instructions, involving family or caregivers as needed.

Mechanism of Action

Inhibits the enzyme cyclooxygenase, which blocks prostaglandin production, impacting pain signal generation in the peripheral nervous system.
Acts on the hypothalamus' temperature-regulating center by inhibiting prostaglandin E2 synthesis.

Contraindications

Not recommended for individuals with hypersensitivity to acetaminophen, severe hepatic impairment, or active severe liver disease.

Common Side Effects

Possible side effects include anorexia, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, lethargy, diaphoresis, chills, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and risk of hepatic failure from excessive use.

Post-Assessment Monitoring

Requires assessment for therapeutic effects and regular monitoring of:
- Complete Blood Count (CBC)
- Coagulation studies (PT/ PTT)
- Electrolytes, glucose, lipids, and hepatic/renal function tests.
Monitor vital signs and weight, with specific alert for weight gain exceeding 1kg in 24 hours or 2kg weekly.

Patient Teaching

Advise taking tablets whole or crushed and to read medication labels carefully.
Emphasize caution about exceeding recommended dosages or combined use with other acetaminophen-containing medications to prevent liver damage.
Educate on signs of hepatotoxicity, including bleeding and easy bruising.

Antidote for Overdose

Acetaminophen overdose is treated with Acetylcysteine, administered orally or intravenously.

Description

This quiz covers essential information about Acetaminophen, including its trade name, dosing guidelines, and important warnings. It provides a quick review for students and professionals needing to familiarize themselves with this common medication. Perfect for drug card study sessions!