Paracetamol poisoning
Paracetamol poisoning
Paracetamol poisoning, also known as acetaminophen toxicity (pronunciation: /ˌpærəˈsiːtəmɒl pɔɪˈzɒnɪŋ/), is a common cause of drug overdose that can lead to severe liver damage. The condition occurs when a person ingests a dose of paracetamol (also known as acetaminophen in the United States) that exceeds the body's ability to safely metabolize it.
Etymology
The term "paracetamol" is derived from the chemical name for the compound: para-acetylaminophenol. "Poisoning" comes from the Old French poison, which in turn comes from the Latin potionem, meaning "drink or potion".
Symptoms
Symptoms of paracetamol poisoning may initially be absent or non-specific symptoms. More severe symptoms, such as jaundice, kidney failure, and bleeding disorders may occur if the overdose has caused liver damage.
Treatment
Treatment for paracetamol poisoning includes the administration of activated charcoal to absorb the drug in the stomach and intestines, and the use of a medication called N-acetylcysteine (NAC), which can neutralize the toxic metabolite of paracetamol.
Prevention
Prevention of paracetamol poisoning is primarily through education about the dangers of overdose and the importance of not exceeding the recommended dose.
See also
References
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Paracetamol poisoning
- Wikipedia's article - Paracetamol poisoning
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