Tachipirina is a drug commonly used to treat pain and reduce fever. The active ingredient of Tachipirina is paracetamol (acetaminophen), known for its safety when used correctly. However, an overdose can cause serious liver damage, leading to poisoning that can be fatal if not treated properly.
Causes of Tachipirina Poisoning
Tachipirina poisoning can occur in different circumstances:
- Accidental Overdose: Patients often take multiple medications that contain acetaminophen without realizing it, exceeding the maximum recommended daily dose.
- Intentional Overdose: In some cases, acetaminophen poisoning is the result of an attempted self-harm.
- Individual Metabolism: Some people metabolise paracetamol differently, and may suffer damage even at normal dosages, especially if there are pre-existing liver problems or concomitant alcohol consumption.
Symptoms of Tachipirina Poisoning
Symptoms of acetaminophen toxicity can range from mild to severe and include:
- In the early stages: Nausea, vomiting, sweating and general malaise.
- Advanced liver damage: Right upper abdominal pain, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), dark urine, and confusion.
- In severe cases: Acute liver failure, which can lead to kidney failure, internal bleeding, and even death.
Treatment of Tachipirina Poisoning
Treatment for paracetamol poisoning should be started as soon as possible to be effective:
- Antidote: N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is the antidote for paracetamol poisoning. It can be administered orally or intravenously and works best if given within the first 8 hours of ingestion.
- Supportive Care: In the hospital, treatments may include intravenous fluids, medications to relieve symptoms such as nausea and pain, and intensive monitoring of vital and liver functions.
- Liver transplantation: In severe cases, a liver transplant may be necessary.
Prevention of Tachipirina Poisoning
- Pay attention to the dose: Do not exceed the recommended daily dose of paracetamol, which is generally 4000 mg for adults.
- Check the Components: Carefully read the labels of all medications, including over-the-counter medications, to see if they contain acetaminophen.
- Consult a Doctor: Talk to a doctor before taking acetaminophen if you have pre-existing conditions such as liver disease or if you regularly consume alcohol.
Conclusion
While Tachipirina is generally safe when used as directed, it is critical to be aware of the risks associated with its overdose. Prevention through education and caution when using medications can significantly reduce the risk of acetaminophen poisoning. In case of suspected overdose, it is essential to seek immediate medical attention.
