• What is paracetamol’s mechanism of action?  How does it differ from that of aspirin

Paracetamol has analgesic effects mediated through activation of descending serotonergic pathways. It inhibits prostaglandin synthesis by reducing the active form of COX1&2 enzymes.

Aspirin on the other hand is a non-selective and irreversibly inhibits both COX1&2,  it does so by acetylating the hydroxyl of a serine residue.

• Name the indications for paracetamol.  Under which circumstances is it a drug of choice for the treatment of mild pain and fever?

Indications: Migraine, toothache, colds, rheumatic pain and backache. Mild pains such as headaches, toothache, sprains and colds and flu.

• Name side-effects that can occur with paracetamol use.

nausea, stomach pain, jaundice, dark urine and loss of appetite.

• Compile a report in which you discuss acute paracetamol toxicity, stressing the dose, signs and symptoms and treatment. 

Paracetamol toxicity is caused by excessive use of paracetamol. It occurs during a period of up to 8 hours after ingestion. The symptoms are abdominal pain, irritability, loss of appetite, diarrhea, vomiting, nausea. Paracetamol toxicity is treated by N-acetyl-cysteine(NAC).