Acetaminophen is the active metabolite of phenacetin responsible for its analgesic effect. It is a weak prostaglandin inhibitor in peripheral tissues and possesses no significant anti- inflammatory effects.
Pharmacokinetics: Acetaminophen is administered orally. Absorption is related to the rate of gastric emptying. Acetaminophen is slightly bound to plasma proteins and is partially metabolized by hepatic microsomal enzymes.
Indications: It is an effective analgesic and antipyretic agent, but it lacks of anti-inflammatory properties. The drug is useful in mild to moderate pain such as headache, myalgia, and postpartum pain.
Adverse Effects: It is hepatotoxic (contraindicated in patients with known liver diseases), and also causes hemolytic anemia and methemoglobinemia.
Leave a Reply