Patient was educated on precautions to be exercised while taking Acetaminophen as follows:
- Acetaminophen is metabolized by the liver and Acetaminophen intake can lead to hepatic injury. Individuals with history of compromised liver function cannot metabolize Acetaminophen and this can lead to increased blood levels of Acetaminophen for longer duration, leading to toxicity. Acetaminophen should be avoided or used with extreme caution in such individuals. Watch for symptoms of hepatic injury and altered liver function, such as, increased bilirubin levels in the body, resulting in itching, jaundice with yellowing of skin and sclera, dark urine, altered metabolism with nausea and vomiting, pain in the right upper abdominal quadrant, and fatigue. Observe compliance with any labs ordered for evaluation of hepatic function.
- Acetaminophen is mainly excreted in the urine. Individuals with compromised renal functions tend to retain the active metabolite of the drug in the circulation longer, thus resulting in toxicity. Acetaminophen should be avoided or used with extreme caution in such individuals. Observe compliance with any labs ordered for evaluation of renal function.
- Maintain strict compliance with intake of Acetaminophen as ordered, with regards to dosage and frequency, to derive the benefit of the medication. Noncompliance with recommendation on Acetaminophen intake can result in ineffective pain control.
- Do not change the dose on Acetaminophen without consulting your doctor.
