Acetaminophen inj^®

Acetaminophen

Generic Name: Acetaminophen

Dosage Form: 6.7 mL injectable solution containing 150 mg of Acetaminophen per mL

Drug Class: Analgesic

Indications for Acetaminophen:

This medication is used for:

• Pain relief
• Fever management

How Acetaminophen Works:

Acetaminophen is an analgesic that works by activating certain pathways in the central nervous system to provide pain relief. Additionally, it reduces fever by inhibiting the body’s temperature-regulating center in the hypothalamus.

Dosage Form of Acetaminophen:

• 6.7 mL injectable solution containing 150 mg of Acetaminophen per mL

Preparation of Acetaminophen:

• Acetaminophen can be administered without dilution.
• If needed, it can be diluted using 5% Dextrose or 0.9% Sodium Chloride.

Administration of Acetaminophen:

• This drug is for intravenous infusion only.
• Undiluted drug should be infused over 15 minutes.

Monitoring During Acetaminophen Use:

• Serum acetaminophen levels: Where acute overdose suspected and with long-term use in patients with hepatic disease
• Liver enzymes in patients with prolonged use or in populations with reduced hepatic function (eg, neonates)
• Relief of pain or fever

Contraindications:

• Hypersensitivity to acetaminophen or any component of the formulation
• Severe hepatic impairment or severe active liver disease

Warnings and Precautions:

• The total amount of Acetaminophen consumed from all sources (prescription, over-the-counter, and combination drugs) and by all routes (oral, intravenous, and rectal) should not exceed 4 grams per day.
• Presurgical assessment of the indication for use, symptoms, and goals of therapy should be documented to enable postsurgical assessment.  Monitor for efficacy and toxicity after bariatric surgery and consider switching to an alternative formulation or medication if symptoms worsen.
• Use with caution in patients with known G6PD deficiency.
• Use with caution in patients with hepatic impairment or active liver disease; use of the IV formulation is contraindicated in patients with severe hepatic impairment or severe active liver disease.
• Use with caution in patients with severe hypovolemia (eg, due to dehydration or blood loss).

Acetaminophen Use During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:

• Pregnancy: Consult a doctor before use during pregnancy.
• Breastfeeding: Acetaminophen is excreted in breast milk. It is generally considered safe in recommended doses during breastfeeding. However, use the lowest possible dose for the shortest time necessary to treat the mother while protecting the health of the baby.

Side Effects of Acetaminophen:

Like all medications, Acetaminophen may cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them. Possible side effects include:

• Muscle spasms
• Itching
• Pain at the injection site
• Gastrointestinal issues like constipation
• Abnormal respiratory sounds and changes in blood pressure (either increased or decreased) and peripheral edema (swelling) in adults
• Electrolyte disturbances

Drug Interactions with Acetaminophen:

Consult your doctor or pharmacist before using Acetaminophen with any other medications or supplements.

Packaging of Acetaminophen:

• Each package contains 10 vials.

Storage Conditions for Acetaminophen:

• Store unopened vials at room temperature (20 to 25°C).
• Do not use or store the drug past its expiration date.
• Keep the medication out of the reach of children.

References:

1. Acetaminophen (paracetamol): Drug information, UpToDate 2025
2. Medicines.org.uk - Product Information