§ Acetaminophen (Paracetamol) is the
most frequently used Over-The-Counter (OTC) antipyretic and analgesic drug,
worldwide.
§ The metabolism of Acetaminophen is
mediated by phase II reactions (UDP-glucuronosyl transferases (UGT)-mediated
glucuronidation and sulfation) and phase I oxidative reactions mediated by
Cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes including CYP2E1 and CYP1A2.
§ Drugs increasing the risk of
acetaminophen-associated hepatotoxicity include
Ø
Isoniazid
Ø
Antiepileptic drugs (Carbamazepine, Phenytoin and Phenobarbital)
Ø
Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (Imatinib, Sorafenib and Dasatinib)
Ø
Alcohol
§ Acetaminophen may increase the
international normalized ratio (INR) by potentiating the anticoagulant effect
of warfarin.
§ Healthcare professionals through the screening, education, and follow
up on suspected drug interactions could reduce the risk of adverse effects.
§ The patients are encouraged to ask their doctor or pharmacist to
look over their list for any potentially dangerous combinations.
§ It is recommended that people fill all their prescriptions at one
pharmacy, if possible.
