NATIONAL
CALIFORNIA
VENTURA
category
mechanism
- The analgesic (pain reducing) effects are believed to be due to activation of serotonin pathways in the CNS.
- Antipyresis (fever reduction) is produced from inhibition of the hypothalamic heat-regulating center.
indications
- Temporary reduction of fever.
- Temporary relief of minor aches, pains, and headache.
contraindications
- Severe hepatic impairment or severe active liver disease
dosing
Adult:
Oral: 1 g every 6 hours as needed; maximum dose: 4 g/day
Pediatric:
15 mg/kg/dose every 6 hours as needed; maximum daily dose: 75 mg/kg/day not to exceed 4 g/day
administration
Oral: May administer without regard to food; may administer with food to decrease possible GI upset
onset
<1 hour
peak
10 to 60 minutes
duration
4 to 6 hours
notes
- Combination medications: When calculating total daily dose, confirm that all sources (eg, prescription e.g. Norco, OTCs, combinations) are included.
- Overdose: Acetaminophen is one of the most reported products causing drug-induced liver injury, with ~50% of cases of acute hepatic failure in the US attributed to acetaminophen.
dosage form
Oral tablet: 80 mg, 160 mg 325 mg, 500 mg
Oral liquid and syrup: 160 mg/5 mL
Oral liquid and syrup: 160 mg/5 mL
brand name
Tylenol
adverse reactions
- Hepatotoxicity
- Hepatotoxicity may result from overdose
- Gastrointestinal
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Dermatologic
- Skin rash
structure