Paracetamol: pharmacology, prescribing and controversies

Indications and mechanism of action Paracetamol (internationally known as acetaminophen) is the most common medicine encountered in paediatric practice. It is used widely by parents and health professionals and it has analgesic and antipyretic effects. Its short-term safety and efficacy are well established and it is readily available for purchase over the counter. Its mechanism of action is not fully understood but it is known to inhibit prostaglandin synthesis and is highly selective for cyclooxygenase enzymes in the central nervous system. It also has a weak anti-inflammatory action. An understanding of its pharmacology can significantly increase the apparent effectiveness and safety of this useful medicine. Oral paracetamol is used in children for mild-to-moderate pain and fever, including postimmunisation fever.1 It may also be given by intravenous infusion or per rectum when it is most commonly used for the short-term treatment of moderate pain, particularly after surgery,...
Source: Archives of Disease in Childhood - Education and Practice - Category: Pediatrics Authors: Tags: Editor's choice, Immunology (including allergy), Pain (neurology), Child health, Infant health, Neonatal health, Pain (palliative care), Rheumatology, Poisoning, Occupational and environmental medicine Research in practice Source Type: research