Acetaminophen Overview and Dosage
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Questions and Answers

What is the maximum 24-hour dosage of acetaminophen for an adult without liver dysfunction?

  • 2 g
  • 4 g
  • 3 g (correct)
  • 1 g

    • Which of the following is NOT a common indication for acetaminophen use?

  • Pyrexia
  • Severe pain relief (correct)
  • Mild to moderate pain
  • Antipyresis

    • What mechanism does acetaminophen use to reduce symptoms?

  • Inhibits cyclooxygenase in peripheral tissues
  • Enhances body temperature regulation
  • Blocks nerve signal transmission
  • Inhibits prostaglandin synthetase in the central nervous system (correct)

    • Which of the following conditions is a contraindication for acetaminophen use?

    <p>Acute liver injury (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the recommended oral dosage for a pediatric patient weighing less than 30 kg?

    <p>15 mg/kg (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are the potential adverse effects of long-term acetaminophen use?

    <p>Constipation (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How quickly does intravenous acetaminophen typically reach its peak effect?

    <p>1 hour (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which group is at the highest risk for acetaminophen toxicity?

    <p>Patients with pre-existing liver disease (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the correct dosing guidance for a pediatric patient weighing between 30-50 kg?

    <p>500 mg PO, regardless of form (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common side effect associated with short-term use of acetaminophen?

    <p>Rash and hives (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Flashcards

    Acetaminophen

    A common analgesic and antipyretic used for pain relief and fever reduction.

    Analgesic

    A classification of medications used to relieve pain.

    Antipyretic

    A type of medication that reduces fever.

    Adult Dosage

    For pain: 500-1,000 mg PO, may repeat once after 4 hours.

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    Pediatric Dosing

    Dosing depends on weight; <30 kg is 15 mg/kg, up to 1 g max in 24 hrs.

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    Mechanism of Action

    Inhibits prostaglandin synthesis in the CNS to reduce pain and fever.

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    Adverse Effects

    Uncommon reactions; possible rash, hives, or constipation from long-term use.

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    Overdose Risk

    Toxicity occurs after 7.5 g in adults or 150 mg/kg in children.

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    Contraindications

    Do not use in cases of liver dysfunction, hypersensitivity, or acute liver injury.

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    Pharmacokinetics

    Oral onset in 30 min, peak in 1-3 hrs, IV onset in 15 min, peak in 1 hr.

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    Study Notes

    Acetaminophen: Overview

    • Classification: Analgesic and Antipyretic
    • Brand Names: Abenol®, Actimol®, Atasol®, Tylenol®
    • Indications: Mild to moderate pain, and pyrexia (fever reduction)

    Indications (Detailed)

    • EMR: Mild to moderate pain
    • ACP: Mild to moderate pain and fever reduction

    Contraindications

    • Hypersensitivity to acetaminophen or any component in the formulation
    • Severe alcoholic hepatitis or liver impairment, especially with active alcohol consumption
    • Acute liver injury
    • Acetaminophen-induced liver disease

    Adult Dosage (EMR/ACP)

    • 500-1000 mg PO: (15 mg/kg maximum dose 1000mg)
    • May repeat once after 4 hours
    • 24-hour maximum: 3 g (3000 mg)

    Pediatric Considerations and Dosing (EMR/ACP)

    • Weight-based dosing:
      • <30 kg: 15 mg/kg PO (liquid)
      • 30-50 kg: 500 mg PO (liquid or tablets)

      • 50 kg: 500-1000 mg PO

    • May repeat once after 4 hours
    • 24-hour maximum: 75 mg/kg or 1 g (1000 mg)
    • Do not exceed 5 doses in 24 hours for patients under 12 years old

    Mechanism of Action

    • Inhibits prostaglandin synthetase in the central nervous system, reducing pain and fever.

    Pharmacokinetics (Oral)

    • Onset: 30 minutes
    • Peak: 1-3 hours
    • Duration: 4 hours

    Intravenous Pharmacokinetics

    • Onset: 15 minutes (matching rate of administration)
    • Peak: 1 hour
    • Duration: 4-6 hours (analgesia); > 6 hours (antipyresis)

    Adverse Effects

    • Uncommon with short-term use
    • Rash and hives are possible, though rare
    • Constipation is also possible with long-term use

    Overdose

    • Toxicity can occur with single doses exceeding 7.5 g (adults) or 150 mg/kg (pediatrics)

    Warning and Precautions

    • Leading cause of liver injury: In Canada. Patients with pre-existing liver disease, chronic users of acetaminophen, and children are at highest risk.
    • Medication history: Paramedics should obtain a complete medication history, including over-the-counter preparations, before administration.

    Drug Interactions

    • Alcohol: Potentially increases acetaminophen's hepatotoxic effects.

    Important Considerations for Specific Patient Populations

    • Patients with liver disease should have dosages lowered.

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    Related Documents

    Acetaminophen Medication Guide PDF

    Description

    This quiz covers the classification, indications, contraindications, and dosing information for acetaminophen. It includes details for both adult and pediatric dosages, as well as crucial safety considerations. Test your knowledge on this commonly used analgesic and antipyretic.

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