Sign Out
Signs and Symptoms: Overdose of acetaminophen (paracetamol) may manifest as follows: Some patients may have no symptoms during the first 24 hours or may manifest with nonspecific abdominal signs and symptoms such as loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting. Pallor, excessive sweating and weakness may also be noted.
In the second phase, usually after 24 hours, the previously mentioned signs and symptoms may resolve temporarily and may be replaced by right upper abdominal discomfort or pain and a feeling of fullness brought about by liver enlargement. Decreased urine output may also begin to develop. Liver enzymes (transaminases) and prolongation of prothrombin time may also be noted around this time.
Around 3 to 5 days after, abdominal signs and symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite may reappear accompanied by signs of liver failure such as yellowing of the skin or jaundice, decreased blood glucose and bleeding tendencies. In some cases, acute renal failure may also set in as well as disturbances of cardiac rhythm. Abnormalities in sensorium or consciousness, confusion and decreased body temperature have also been reported.
Patient recovers or may progress to acute and fatal liver failure.
What to do when the patient has taken more than the recommended dosage: A doctor or a Poison Control Center should be consulted immediately if a patient has been given more than the recommended dose or if there is any suspicion that this may have been given or ingested. It should be borne in mind that in some cases patients may appear relatively well initially and may even continue their normal activities for a day or two before the onset of liver or kidney failure. Prompt medical attention is of prime importance to prevent liver toxicity. Delay in seeking medical attention may lead to serious liver failure and other problems.
