Generic Name Acetaminophen, paracetamol

Trade Name Tylenol

Classification NONNARCOTI C ANALGESIC, ANTIPYRETIC Duration 34 h.

Dose 335mg

Route PO

Time/frequency Q4-6h PRN Pain

Peak 0.52 h.

Normal dosage range Adult: PO 325650 mg q46h (max: 4 g/day) PR 650 mg q46h (max: 4 g/day) Why is your patient getting this medication For IV meds, compatibility with IV drips and/or treatment of vitamin/mineral supplementation during solutions pregnancy/lactation N/A Mechanism of action and indications Nursing Implications (what to focus on) (Why med ordered) Monitor for S&S of: Hepatotoxicity, even with moderate acetaminophen doses, especially in It provides temporary analgesia for mild to moderate individuals with poor nutrition or who have pain. In addition, acetaminophen lowers body ingested alcohol over prolonged periods; poisoning, temperature in individuals with a fever. usually from accidental ingestion or suicide attempts; potential abuse from psychological dependence (withdrawal has been associated with restless and excited responses). Common side effects Body as a Whole: Negligible with recommended dosage; rash. Acute poisoning: Anorexia, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, lethargy, diaphoresis, chills, epigastric or abdominal pain, diarrhea; onset of hepatotoxicity: elevation of serum transaminases (ALT, AST) and bilirubin; hypoglycemia, hepatic coma, acute renal failure (rare). Chronic ingestion: Neutropenia, pancytopenia, leukopenia, thrombocytopenic purpura, hepatotoxicity in alcoholics, renal damage. Interactions with other patient drugs, OTC or Lab value alterations caused by medicine herbal medicines (ask patient specifically) False increases in urinary 5-HIAA (5-hydroxyindoleacetic Drug: Cholestyramine may decrease acid) by-product of serotonin; false decreases in blood acetaminophen absorption. With chronic glucose (by glucose oxidaseperoxidase procedure); false coadministration, BARBITURATES, increases in urinary glucose (with certain instruments in carbamazepine, phenytoin, and rifampin may glucose analyses); and false increases in serum uric acid increase potential for chronic hepatotoxicity. (with phosphotungstate method). High doses or long-term Chronic, excessive ingestion of alcohol will increase therapy: hepatic, renal, and hematopoietic function risk of hepatotoxicity. (periodically).

Onset Unknown

Be sure to teach the patient the following about this medication Do not take other medications (e.g., cold preparations) containing acetaminophen without medical advice; overdosing and chronic use can cause liver damage and other toxic effects. Do not self-medicate adults for pain more than 10 days (5 days in children) without consulting a physician. Do not use this medication without medical direction for: Fever persisting longer than 3 days, fever over 39.5 C (103 F), or recurrent fever. Do not give children more than 5 doses in 24 h unless prescribed by physician.