Anaesthesia | Pain | Step I: Paracetamol - Drug and Mechanisms

Step I: Paracetamol - Drug and Mechanisms
Session Overview
Description
This session explores the uses and mechanism of action of paracetamol.

Learning Objectives
By the end of this session you will be able to:

• Identify the components of the paracetamol molecule
• State the dosage of paracetamol in adults and children
• Identify the presumed mechanism of action
• Treat an overdose of paracetamol

Prerequisites
Before commencing this session you should:

• Knowledge of the WHO analgesic ladder
• Knowledge of basic pharmacokinetic principles i.e. absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion

aracetamol is the most widely used analgesic in the UK. It is a mainstay of post operative pain relief and has an enviable safety profile and track record.

Anaesthetists come across this drug probably more than any other and therefore need to know as much about it as is possible.

Throughout this module you will encounter the basis of paracetamol uses and mechanisms of action. There will be frequent knowledge checks throughout the session.