donn@neurad.UUCP (Donn S. Fishbein) (03/31/85)
> Acetaminophen and its metabolites are detoxified by the liver. > There seems to be a hepatotoxic metabolite produced which is > very short-lived in healthy adults, but which accumulates when > the liver is overwhelmed by an overdose. > > I believe that there has been some success in finding drugs which > can prevent acetaminophen-induced liver damage in an overdose if > given early in the treatment. Dosages of 10 to 15 gm. (200 to 250 mg/kg) may result in hepatotoxicity; dosages of 25 gm. are potentially fatal. The first line of treatment in acetaminophen overdosage is induction of vomiting or gastric lavage, followed by oral administration of activated charcoal. If significant drug absorption is thought to have occurred, the agent N-acetylcysteine can be given. The Non-prescription PDR gives the number of the Rocky Mountain Poisin Center as a reference (800-525-6115). -- Donn S. Fishbein, MD (N3DNT) ..!harpo!seismo!nbs-amrf!neurad!donn (301)496-6801