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

Paracetamol - COX-1 and COX-2 inhibitor(weak)

                       - no anti-inflammatory effects

Aspirin - COX-1 and COX-2 inhibitor

             - has anti-inflammatory effects

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

- antipyretic(reduce fever)

-analgesic(for pain)

Used for headache, toothache, mild to moderate pain with no inflammation

Drug of choice for pregnancy, patients with asma, gout and patients that bleed easily(peptic ulcers)

3. Name side-effects that can occur with paracetamol use.  Concentrate only on general side effects and not on acute paracetamol overdose.

An allergic reaction that causes a rash and swelling

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

Dose : 10-15 g

Signs/symptoms : 

1-2 days after dose - nausea and vomiting , abdominal pain, decreased appetite and feeling fatigued

After the 1-2 days - right subcostal pain, jaundice, tar liver and can develop renal insufficiency, liver necrosis and death.

Treatment - give -SH group supplement immediately

                    - N-acetylcysteine given through IV within 8-12 h after overdose

                    - within 1 hour - make patient vomit, stomache flushing