Acetaminophen (Paracetamol)

Acetaminophen (Paracetamol): drug review

Acetaminophen, also known as Paracetamol, is one of the most common and popular analgesic and antipyretic drugs. The drug belongs to para-aminophenol derivatives and is used to reduce body temperature and relieve pain.

Acetaminophen was originally synthesized in the late 19th century in Germany, but is now a widely used drug throughout the world. The country of origin is Iran and manufacturers include Temand Co., Daru Pakhsh, Bulk Drag and Fine Chemicals, also located in Iran.

The active ingredient in acetaminophen is paracetamol, which is available in a variety of dosage forms, including tablets, capsules, liquids, and solids. Indications for use include pain of mild to moderate intensity, such as headache and toothache, migraine, back pain, arthralgia, myalgia, neuralgia, menalgia, and also as an antipyretic for colds.

Despite its widespread use and popularity, acetaminophen also has a number of contraindications and side effects. Contraindications include hypersensitivity, impaired renal and liver function, alcoholism and children under 6 years of age. Side effects may include agranulocytosis, thrombocytopenia, anemia, renal colic, aseptic pyuria, interstitial glomerulonephritis and allergic reactions in the form of skin rashes.

Acetaminophen interactions with other medications can also be a problem. For example, acetaminophen increases the effect of indirect anticoagulants and the likelihood of liver injury from hepatotoxic drugs. Metoclopramide increases the rate of absorption, and cholestyramine reduces it. Barbiturates may reduce antipyretic activity.

An overdose of acetaminophen can be dangerous and can lead to serious consequences such as kidney and liver damage leading to liver failure, cardiac arrhythmias, and pancreatitis. The risk of overdose increases in patients with non-cirrhotic alcoholic liver diseases. With long-term use of indirect anticoagulants simultaneously with acetaminophen, there may also be a risk of bleeding.

To reduce the risk of side effects and overdose, dosage recommendations and contraindications must be followed. Do not exceed the recommended dose or duration of use, or take acetaminophen with other medications without first consulting your doctor.

Overall, acetaminophen is an effective and widely used drug, but should be used with caution and following dosage and contraindication recommendations. If any side effects occur or the need for long-term use of the drug, you should consult a doctor for consultation and prescribe the optimal treatment.