Acetaminophen Toxicity Acetaminophen is an active ingredient found in Tylenol and other medications that are used to treat pain

and fever. Who is affected? Acetaminophen is toxic to both dogs and cats. Cats are approximately 7-10 times more susceptible to toxicity. This is because they lack the mechanism to safely metabolize this drug. This medication can be prescribed by veterinarians in certain situations. Acetaminophen is only toxic at certain dosages. For this reason, please follow the instructions given to you by your veterinarian. If you notice any vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy, please contact your veterinarian. How is it toxic? Acetaminophen is mostly broken down by the liver. The toxic effects can lead to severe liver failure and red blood cell injury. Once acetaminophen is broken down, it can bind to the red blood cells. As a result the red blood cell loses its oxygen carrying capability turning blood from the color red to brown. This means that blood can no longer carry oxygen to the bodys vital organs. Clinical signs Vomiting Decreased appetite Lethargy Difficulty breathing Abdominal pain Brown discoloration of gums Brown urine Blue gums (cyanosis) Swelling of face or paws Shock, collapse, death

Acetaminophen is rapidly absorbed from the stomach and small intestine and can reach high levels in the blood within 30-60 minutes. How is acetaminophen diagnosed? Diagnosis is based off of history of ingesting acetaminophen. Blood work, such as a complete blood cell count and chemistry may be recommended.

Treatment If you know your pet ingested acetaminophen, please contact your veterinarian right away. Vomiting may be induced if your pet consumed this drug within 30 minutes- 1 hour. Your veterinarian may also perform decontaminate procedures, such as gastric lavage (flushing of the stomach) or administration of activated charcoal to bind and remove the toxins. N-acetylcysteine is a supplement commonly used to prevent further damage to the liver and red blood cells. Other treatments include blood transfusion, fluid therapy, as well as other supportive medications.

Acetaminophen can be fatal. Please contact your veterinarian right away if your pet has consumed acetaminophen.