A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF PARACETAMOL (ACETAMINOPHEN): PHARMACOLOGICAL PROPERTIES

• Dr. Amit Gajanan Nerkar*

Abstract

Paracetamol, known as acetaminophen, is a widely recognized and extensively used drug globally for managing fever and acute pain. Despite its long-standing clinical application, the precise mechanisms underlying its therapeutic effects remain elusive. This review aims to explore the pharmacological properties, clinical applications, efficacy, and safety of paracetamol by synthesizing existing research findings and delving into emerging insights. Paracetamol, or acetaminophen, is a cornerstone of modern medicine, serving as a primary medication for managing fever and pain. Its over-the-counter availability highlights its essential role in healthcare, yet the intricate mechanisms through which it operates remain enigmatic. This introduction provides a brief historical overview of paracetamol, emphasizing its prevalent use in clinical practice and the need to unravel its mechanism of action. Paracetamol was first synthesized in 1877 and introduced into clinical use in the 1950s (Smith, 2022). Since then, it has become one of the most widely used drugs worldwide, with its efficacy in managing fever and pain well-established (Smith, 2022).

Keywords

Paracetamol, Acetaminophen, COX, NSAIDs