Paracetamol Overdose

NAC per nomogram

Red flags
  • Staggered ingestion
  • Unknown time / >24 h ingestion
  • Hepatotoxicity signs (RUQ pain, jaundice, encephalopathy)

First steps

  • Time of ingestion, dose, formulation
  • Activated charcoal if <1 h and >150 mg/kg
  • Bloods including paracetamol level at 4 h

Key investigations

  • Paracetamol level at 4 h post-ingestion
  • LFT, INR, U&E, glucose, ABG, VBG

Differentials

  • Co-ingestion (opioids, aspirin, alcohol)

Initial management

  • Plot level on Rumack-Matthew nomogram (UK 100-line)
  • NAC 21-h regimen if above line, staggered, unknown time, or high risk
  • SNAP 12-h regimen alternative
  • King's College criteria — transplant referral

Referral

  • Hepatology / transplant centre if fulminant
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