Sometimes, after surgery, or when you have a high fever or pain, it's hard to take pills by mouth, right? That's when doctors use this injection into a vein. Today, we'll talk about this injection called Acetaminophen.
What is this Acetaminophen injection?
Simply put, this is a medicine that is used to control mild to moderate pain and reduce fever . This is the same acetaminophen that we all know as Paracetamol. However, it is not given as a pill, but as an injection into a vein.
You will usually receive this in a hospital or clinic under the supervision of medical staff. Therefore, this is not a medicine to take home or keep. In Sri Lanka, you may see it under the brand name `Ofirmev`.
Things your doctor should know before giving you this medicine:
Before you are given this injection, it is very important that you clearly tell your doctor about the following information. Hiding these things can be a serious risk to your health.
| Status | Why do you need to tell the doctor? |
|---|---|
| If you drink alcohol frequently | The combination of alcohol and acetaminophen can cause serious liver damage. |
| If you have liver disease | If liver function is impaired, this medication may be delayed in being eliminated from the body, increasing side effects. |
| If you have an allergic reaction to acetaminophen or other medicines or foods | This is essential to prevent a serious allergic reaction. |
| If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant | The doctor will consider the risks and benefits and make the most appropriate decision. |
| If you are a breastfeeding mother | Since a small amount of the medication can pass to the baby through breast milk, it is important to inform the doctor about it. |
Do you give this to small children?
Yes, doctors use this injection in selected cases, starting with newborns. But special precautions must be followed. So if you are giving this to a child, be sure to talk to the doctor about it.
What to do if the dose of kelinawelawata (overdose) increases?
Since this is given in a hospital, the risk of overdose is low. However, if you think you have somehow overdosed on this medicine, it is essential to seek immediate medical attention.
Acetaminophen (paracetamol) overdose is very dangerous . It can cause irreversible liver damage. If you have any concerns, seek medical advice immediately, even if you have no symptoms.
In such a situation, do not panic and immediately go to the nearest hospital Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) . If necessary, you can also call the National Poison Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.
Other things that may interact with this medicine
Other medications you take may interact with acetaminophen, so tell your doctor about everything you use.
- Alcohol: Increases liver damage.
- Imatinib, Isoniazid: These are specific drugs given for other diseases.
- Warfarin: A drug given to prevent blood clotting.
- Other medicines containing acetaminophen: For example, medicines like Panadol and Calpol.
Most importantly: Give your doctor a complete list of all medications, herbs, vitamins, and supplements you take. Don't forget to tell them if you smoke or drink alcohol.
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medicine, this one can cause side effects in some people. Some of them are serious, some of them are common.
| Type of side effect | Symptoms |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| Liver injury | Pain in the upper right side of the stomach, loss of appetite, nausea, light-colored stools, dark yellow or brown urine, yellowing of the eyes or skin, unusual tiredness. |
| Serious skin reactions | Skin redness, blistering, peeling (even inside the mouth). |
| Side effects that are usually not serious (but tell your doctor if they persist) | |
| Headache | |
| Nausea | |
| Difficulty falling asleep | |
| Vomiting | |
This list does not include all possible side effects. If you experience anything unusual, talk to your doctor about it.
Take-Home Message
- Acetaminophen injection is a medication given in a hospital to control pain and fever.
- Before taking this medication, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions (especially liver disease, alcohol use) and other medications you are taking.
- While receiving this injection, do not take any other medicine (tablets, syrup) containing acetaminophen (paracetamol).
- Overdose is very dangerous. If in doubt, go to a hospital's Emergency Department (ETU) immediately.
- If you experience any serious side effects such as skin rash, yellowing of the eyes, or severe stomach pain, inform your doctor immediately.
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