Paracetamol (Acetaminophen)
Also known as: Pardale-V, Perfalgan, Panadol, Tylenol
Paracetamol is a medication used to relieve mild to moderate pain and reduce fever in dogs. It is sometimes used when other pain medications (like NSAIDs) upset your dog's stomach. > **CRITICAL WARNING:** **NEVER give this medication to cats.** Even a tiny amount is highly toxic and often fatal to cats because they lack the liver enzymes needed to process it. - Always give the exact dose prescribed by your veterinarian. Do not use human paracetamol products without explicit veterinary instruction, as dosing is very different for dogs. - Contact your vet immediately if your dog shows signs of vomiting, lethargy, yellowing of the gums/eyes, or difficulty breathing.
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
What it is used for
- Mild to moderate pain / Antipyretic
- Mild to moderate pain (Pardale-V preparation)
- All indications
How it is given
Possible side effects
- Hepatotoxicity (dose-dependent)
- Methaemoglobinaemia (especially in cats)
- Facial edema
- Cyanosis
Cautions & contraindications
- Cats (absolute contraindication due to fatal toxicosis)
- Patients with pre-existing severe hepatic impairment
- > **Feline Toxicity:** Do not use in cats. They lack the glucuronyl transferase enzymes required to metabolize the drug, leading to fatal methaemoglobinaemia and hepatotoxicity even at very low doses. - Use with caution in dogs with pre-existing liver disease. - The combination of an NSAID and paracetamol for perioperative analgesia is common in human medicine but has not undergone rigorous safety or efficacy investigation in dogs.
Drug interactions
- Metoclopramide: Enhances the absorption of paracetamol, thereby enhancing its clinical and potentially toxic effects.
- Cytochrome P450 Inducers (e.g., Phenobarbital, certain NSAIDs): May increase the production of toxic metabolites (NAPQI), enhancing the risk of hepatotoxicity.
Frequently asked questions
What is Paracetamol (Acetaminophen) used for in pets?
Paracetamol is a medication used to relieve mild to moderate pain and reduce fever in dogs. It is sometimes used when other pain medications (like NSAIDs) upset your dog's stomach. > **CRITICAL WARNING:** **NEVER give this medication to cats.** Even a tiny amount is highly toxic and often fatal to cats because they lack the liver enzymes needed to process it. - Always give the exact dose prescribed by your veterinarian. Do not use human paracetamol products without explicit veterinary instruction, as dosing is very different for dogs. - Contact your vet immediately if your dog shows signs of vomiting, lethargy, yellowing of the gums/eyes, or difficulty breathing.
Is Paracetamol (Acetaminophen) safe for my pet?
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell, please consult a veterinarian.
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