Dosing instructions for IV paracetamol simplified

on the 14 March 2014

The dosing instructions for the intravenous paracetamol product Perfalgan are now based solely on body weight regardless of the patient's age.

Perfalgan is indicated for the short-term treatment of moderate pain (especially following surgery) and fever. | SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Perfalgan is indicated for the short-term treatment of moderate pain (especially following surgery) and fever. | SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

The revised Summary of Product Characteristics for Perfalgan provides a recommended dose for both adults and children according to four different weight bands: <10kg; >10kg to <33kg; >33kg to <50kg; and >50kg. For the >50kg weight band the recommended maximum daily dose is dependent on the presence or absence of additional risk factors for hepatotoxicity.

Doses are presented in both milligrams per kilogram and millilitres per kilogram with a recommendation that prescribers state the total dose in both milligrams and volume to avoid dosing errors.

View Perfalgan drug record

Further information: Bristol-Myers Squibb

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