Acetaminophen (Paracetamol)

• Acetaminophen (Paracetamol) relieves pain and fever, widely used as an OTC analgesic-antipyretic.
• It inhibits central prostaglandin synthesis with minimal anti-inflammatory effect.

Chemical Formula:

• C₈H₉NO₂

Mechanism of Acetaminophen (Paracetamol):

• Weak COX inhibition in CNS
• No peripheral anti-inflammatory effect
• Acts on serotonergic & endocannabinoid systems (minor)

Uses of Acetaminophen (Paracetamol):

• Fever
• Mild to moderate pain
• Preferred in children and pregnancy

Side Effects:

• Hepatotoxicity (esp. overdose)
• Rare skin reactions (SJS, TEN)

Notes:

• Antidote: N-acetylcysteine (NAC) for overdose
• Safe alternative to NSAIDs for patients with GI risk

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