GENERIC NAME: Paracetamol

BRAND NAME: Calpol

DRUG CLASS: Analgesics; Muscle Relaxants
Drug MECHANISM:
1. Decreases fever by inhibiting the effects of pyrogens on the hypothalamus heat regulating centers &
by a hypothalamic action leading to sweating & vasodilatation.
2. Relieves pain by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis at the CNS but does not have anti-inflammatory
action because of its minimal effect on peripheral prostaglandin synthesis.
Indications: Relief of mild-to-moderate pain; treatment of fever
Contraindications: Hypersensitivity; intolerance to tartrazine (yellow dye #5), alcohol, table sugar,
saccharin; Contraindicated with allergy to acetaminophen
DOSAGE: 2.5ml q 4hrs PO
ADVERSE EFFECTS: Stimulation, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, hepatotoxicity, hepatic
seizure(overdose, Renal failure(high, prolonged doses), leucopenia, neutropenia, hemolytic anemia
(long term use) thrombocytopenia, pancytopenia, rash, urticaria, hypersensitivity, cyanosis, anemia,
jaundice, CNS, stimulation, delirium followed by vascular collaps, convulsions, coma, death.
NURSING RESPONSIBILITIES:
1. Assess patients fever or pain: typeof pain, location, intensity, duration, temperature, and
diaphoresis.
2. Assess allergic reactions: rash, urticaria; if these occur, drug may have to be discontinued.
3. Teach patient to recognize signs of chronic overdose: bleeding, bruising, malaise, fever, sore
throat.
4. Tell patient to notify prescriber for pain/ fever lasting for more than 3 days.