Paracetamol: A Focus on Dogs

Corresponding Author: Mario Giorgi Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy Email: mario.giorgi@unipi.it Abstract: Paracetamol (APAP) is an aniline analgesic, antipyretic and nonnarcotic. It is an essential drug, widely used in human medicine. In veterinary medicine it has an extra label use in many countries. It is used exclusively in some animals, including dogs. It has a mechanism of action similar to that of NSAIDs, as well as other unique characteristics. A variety of studies on APAP in dogs have been published since its introduction into several clinical practices, covering pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, effectiveness and toxicity when inadvertent or accidental overdosing occurs. When taken at therapeutic doses, APAP has been proven to be a powerful and effective analgesic and antipyretic in dogs, as well as having some anti-inflammatory effects. On the other hand, it should be used with caution. This study is a documentation of the therapeutic, toxic and lethal doses of APAP in dogs, as well as the therapeutic effects, clinical application, mostly for the control of post-operative pain and its toxic effects.