

N-acetyl-P-benzoquinone imine (NAPQI) causes damage to liver cells and reduces the levels of antioxidants present in the liver (glutathione). N-acetyl-P-benzoquinone imine (NAPQI) is a toxic intermediate produced from Acetaminophen. It occurs due to the toxic metabolites released from Acetaminophen in the body. Hepatotoxicity is the most important effect of Acetaminophen overdose.

An excessive dose of Acetaminophen in the human body causes immediate side effects within 24 hours and later progresses to liver damage. The maximum recommended daily dosage of Acetaminophen in adults is four grams per day, and in children, it is 90 milligrams per kilogram per day. It can occur due to accidental ingestion of large doses of Acetaminophen or purposeful consumption as a part of suicidal attempts. How To Avoid Food Poisoning and Diarrhea During A Holiday Trip?Īcetaminophen toxicity is caused by the enormous use of Paracetamol and N-acetyl-P-aminophenol (APAP), the most commonly used medications for relieving fever and pain. What Are the Uses of Acetaminophen?Īcetaminophen is used for the following purposes.

It also acts directly on the hypothalamus and produces its antipyretic effects (reducing fever). They act by inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX) present in the brain and prevent the production of prostaglandins, which are responsible for fever and pain. Acetaminophen belongs to the group of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It is the most commonly used oral antipyretic (reduce fever) and analgesic (pain killer) drug. What Is Acetaminophen?Īcetaminophen (otherwise known as Paracetamol) is a drug used for the treatment of fever and pain (mild to moderate). Hepatotoxicity (liver toxicity) is the most important side effect of Acetaminophen toxicity and is the most important reason for liver transplantation in the world. Acute Acetaminophen toxicity will cause immediate symptoms and later on cause multiple organ failures, especially in the liver. These medications are easily available at a low cost in the market, and most of the population considers them safe compared to other drugs. It is caused by the excessive use of Paracetamol and other Acetaminophen-containing medications used for relieving pain and fever. Acetaminophen toxicity is one of the most common causes of liver failure worldwide.
