Joint Formulary & PAD

Paracetamol - Pain

I agree that in using this database I understand that this platform only provides guidance on local prescribing policy and that all prescribing decisions are ultimately the responsibility of the clinician.

Status 1

Green
Formulations :
  • Tablets
Associated Icons :
Restrictions / Comments :
Preferred
 

Status 2

Green (see narrative)
Formulations :
  • Effervescent tablets
  • Soluble tablets
  • Suppositories
Associated Icons :
Restrictions / Comments :
Important
Reserve for patients who cannot swallow solid dose forms. Soluble / effervescent preparations have a high sodium content and more expensive than ordinary tablets. Suppositories for use when oral route is not suitable
 

Status 3

Green (see narrative)
Formulations :
  • Oral suspension
Associated Icons :
Restrictions / Comments :
Important
120mg/5ml and 250mg/5ml reserved for patients who cannot swallow solid dose forms or where sodium content of dispersible preparations is a problem. Non-formulary: Paracetamol oral suspension 500mg/5ml. Much more expensive. Use a soluble formulation.
 

Status 4

Red
Formulations :
  • Intravenous infusion
Associated Icons :
Restrictions / Comments :
Important
Prescribe in milligrams for doses <1g. Review infusion prescriptions after 48-72 hours. Note risk of overdose with IV paracetamol.

Documentation

  • No records returned.

PAD Profile

ChemicalSubstance :
Paracetamol
Indication :
Pain
Group Name :
Keywords :
Analgesia, analgesics
Brand Names Include :
Important Information :
Latest Additions Date From :
Latest Additions Date To :
Guidelines :
Supporting Documents :
0
Traffic Light Entries :
4

Other Indications

Below are listed other indications that Paracetamol is used to treat.

Committee Recommendations (1)

Paracetamol is considered a 1st line option for the treatment option for pain (except diabetic neuropathy), see guidelines below for further information. Please see narrative below for information on paracetamol products:

  • Paracetamol Tablets 500mg: GREEN (1st line treatment option)
  • Paracetamol oral suspension 120mg/5ml, 250mg/5ml - GREEN (1st line treatment option IF suspension is indicated)

Effervescent or soluble formulations: 
There is no advantage in patient who can swallow tablets, these products contain high concentrations of sodium and are expensive. Avoid use unless patient has difficulty swallowing

  • Paracetamol dispersible tablets 500mg - GREEN 

When oral preparations are not appropriate:

  • Paracetamol suppository 60mg, 125mg, 250mg, 500mg - GREEN 

Not recommended for use in any healthcare setting across Surrey CCGs

Paracetamol combination products: