Paracetamol is commonly taken in overdose
Harms with long-term therapeutic use are less clear
This guideline reflects the local NHSGGC policy on acetylcysteine use in adult paracetamol overdoses and is based on the Scottish and Newcastle Anti-emetic Pre-treatment for Paracetamol Poisoning (SNAP) regime
Death from paracetamol overdose can take between two and four days and is usually due to liver failure
Tiredness; Breathlessness; Bluish tinge to fingers and lips Treatment of Paracetamol Overdose
Acetaminophen overdose occurs when someone takes more than the recommended amount of this medicine
In adults taking therapeutic doses, paracetamol is metabolised into two major non-toxic metabolites – sulphate and glucuronide conjugates – which account for
It should be remembered that most patients with severe paracetamol poisoning will develop nausea and vomiting, at least in part due to coingestion of ethanol or opioids [Waring et al
The
Paracetamol overdose now represents one third of all self-poisoning cases
Loss of consciousness
This effect seems likely to be via cyclo-oxygenase inhibition and may be separate from the nephrotoxic effects of paracetamol
Overdose is the use of a quantity of drug in excess of its intended or prescribed dose
Intentional or accidental poisoning with paracetamol is a common cause of liver injury
Paracetamol overdose is the most common pharmaceutical poisoning worldwide and can lead to liver injury or acute liver failure