Paracetamol toxicity
Drug Safety Update
January 2017: Intravenous N-acetylcysteine (NAC) for paracetamol overdose: reminder of authorised dose regimen; possible need for continued treatment with NAC
July 2016: N-acetylcysteine: risk of false-low biochemistry test results due to interference with Siemens assays
December 2014: Treating paracetamol overdose with intravenous acetylcysteine: new guidance
Paracetamol toxicity has traditionally been treated by a 21-hour infusion (3 separate infusions) of N’Acetylcysteine (NAC). Another treatment regime for the treatment of paracetamol toxicity known as the Scottish and Newcastle Acetylcysteine Protocol (SNAP) is also available and only requires a 12-hour infusion (2 separate infusions).
Both regimes for adults and children can be found on the Toxbase website and the Injectable Medicines Guide (Medusa). Medusa can also be accessed via a link on the MTW intranet pharmacy page.
