Exploring the Efficacy of N-Acetylcysteine as a Novel Treatment for Acetaminophen or Paracetamol Toxicity in Pediatrics: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

Acetaminophen or Paracetamol is well known for its antipyretic and analgesic properties. As it has both analgesic and antipyretic properties, it is mostly preferred over other analgesics and antipyretics. It is a commonly used analgesic and antipyretic agent in children. It is being used in children in various dosage forms like syrup dosage forms or tablet dosage forms according to their age. And when any drug is being administered to children, it is the most concerning matter. If Acetaminophen or Paracetamol is administered in proper dose, it does not cause any unintended effect in children. But it can be heavily dangerous if it is being used too much. When the dose is a little high or somehow the child takes too much of the medication, it can cause drug overdose, basically it can be said that Acetaminophen or Paracetamol overdose which in turn can cause drug induced toxicity. This toxicity in children may lead to hospitalization and even death. Over the years, after cosmetic induced health problems, Paracetamol toxicity remains the most common problems which can be seen everywhere around the whole world. Though the symptoms are not obvious, some of the most common symptoms of Acetaminophen or Paracetamol toxicity are: i) Nausea and vomiting, ii) Drowsiness, iii) Loss of consciousness, etc. The treatment of the Paracetamol or Acetaminophen toxicity varies and it’s mainly depending on the seriousness of the condition. N-acetylcysteine is used for the toxicity caused by Acetaminophen or Paracetamol overdose and can be administered orally or intravenously.