Acetaminophen, PO

Provider Level

EMT/AEMT/RN/Paramedic

Class

Analgesic, Antipyretic

Mechanism of Action

Inhibits prostaglandin synthesis in the central nervous system, elevating the pain threshold and altering temperature regulation in the hypothalamus.

Indications

Mild to moderate pain, fever.

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to acetaminophen, severe hepatic impairment, severe active liver disease.

Routes

PO

Onset / Duration

Onset 30 to 60 minutes. Duration 4 to 6 hours.

Adverse Effects

Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, rare allergic reactions, hepatotoxicity in overdose.

Precautions & Interactions

Use caution in patients with history of alcoholism, malnutrition, or mild-to-moderate hepatic impairment. Ensure patient has not recently taken other acetaminophen-containing medications.

Special Considerations

Authorized for EMT, AEMT, RN, and Paramedic. Overdose can lead to fatal hepatic necrosis. Antidote is acetylcysteine.