Kidz PCM Overdosage

In case of overdose, seek emergency medical attention immediately or call the National Poison Centre at 1800-888-099 for advice.
Symptoms: Symptoms of Paracetamol overdosage in the first 24 hours are diarrhea, sweating, loss of appetite, nausea or vomiting, stomach cramps or pain. Persistence beyond this time, pain, swelling or tenderness in the upper abdomen or stomach area, usually indicates development of hepatic necrosis. Liver damage may be apparent with 12 to 48 hours overdosage.
Treatments: Despite a lack of significant early symptoms, patients who have taken an overdose of Paracetamol should be admitted to hospital immediately.
1. Induction of vomiting may reduce absorption if 100 - 150 mg/kg or greater of Paracetamol is ingested.
2. Administration of activated charcoal should be considered if Paracetamol in excess of 150 mg/kg or 12 g whichever is smaller, is thought to have been ingested within the previous hour.
3. Gastric lavage is indicated if the patient is unwilling or unable to take the activated charcoal.
4. Dextrose and blood infusion.
5. Antidote such as acetylcysteine and methionine protect the liver if given within 10 - 12 hours of ingestion and other supportive treatments may be provided in the hospital.
6. Haemoperfusion may be worthwhile if too much time has elapsed since the poisoning to allow the use of antidote.