NAME OF DRUG Generic name: Paracetamol Brand name: Biogesic Dose: 500 mg 1 tab Route: Oral Frequency: q 4

CLASSIFICATION Analgesic ( Nonopioid) Antipyretic

MECHANISM OF ACTION Paracetamol may cause analgesia by inhibiting CNS prostaglandin synthesis. The mechanism of morphine is believed to involve decreased permeability of the cell membrane to sodium, which results in diminished transmission of pain impulses therefore analgesia.

INDICATION To relieve mild to moderate pain due to things such as headache, muscle and joint pain, backache and period pains. It is also used to bring down a high temperature. For this reason, paracetamol can be given to children after vaccinations to prevent postimmunization pyrexia (high temperature). Paracetamol is often included in cough, cold and flu remedies

CONTRAINDICATION Hypersensitivity to acetaminophen or phenacetin; use with alcohol

ADVERSE EFFECT Hematologic: hemolytic anemia, leukopenia, neutropenia, pancytopenia, thrombocytop enia. Hepatic: liver damage, jaundice Metabolic: hypoglycemia Skin: rash, urticuria

NURSING CONSIDERATION >Assess patients fever or pain: type of pain, location, intensity, duration, temperature, and diaphoresis. >Assess allergic reactions: rash, urticaria; if these occur, drug may have to be discontinued. >Teach patient to recognize signs of chronic overdose: bleeding, bruising, malaise, fever, sore throat. >Tell patient to notify prescriber for pain/ fever lasting for more than 3 days.