Haemodynamic Effects of Paracetamol (Acetaminophen) as Extended Intravenous Infusion Versus Intravenous Bolus in Septic Shock Patients

Sepsis, inflammatory response to infection, contributes directly or indirectly to mortality in the majority of critically ill patients. An elevated cardiac index and a decreased systemic vascular resistance leading to hypotension and hypoperfusion of vital organs characterize the early stage of septic shock. The hypotensive state is often not amenable to fluid resuscitation alone and requires institution of vasoactive agents to counter the profound fall in systemic vascular resistance, which is an integral feature of septic shock .

Acetaminophen is the antipyretic and analgesic that is most often given to hospitalized patients, including those in critical care units. The mechanism of action of acetaminophen remains incompletely understood, but the antipyretic response appears to be due to blocking cyclooxygenase-II and inhibiting prostaglandin-II synthesis in the central nervous system.

Intravenous (IV) acetaminophen has gained popularity for inpatient management of acute pain for its practical and clinical advantages. IV administration is associated with more predictable pharmacokinetic performance compared with rectal (30%-40% bioavailability) and oral dosage forms of acetaminophen (60%-70% bioavailability).

Predictable kinetics as well as ease of IV administration has made it an especially attractive option in the critically ill patients who have altered gut absorption secondary to numerous pathophysiological and therapeutic influences .

IV acetaminophen has shown promise in improving patient satisfaction, managing fever, and decreasing postoperative opioid requirements. These features have made it one of the most widely ordered medications within critical care and surgical services.