Perfalgan overdose warning

on the 27 April 2012

To avoid accidental overdose with Perfalgan (paracetamol) 10mg/ml solution for infusion, prescribers are recommended to specify the volume of administration in ml.

Polarised light micrograph of paracetamol crystals | SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

Since paracetamol overdose can lead to serious liver damage, it is also essential to follow the weight-related dose recommendations and to consider individual patient risk factors for hepatotoxicity, including hepatocellular insufficiency, chronic alcoholism, chronic malnutrition and dehydration.

Recommended doses

For children weighing 10kg or less, the dose is 7.5mg/kg (0.75ml/kg) up to 4 times daily and the volume of Perfalgan administered should never exceed 7.5ml per dose. Smaller volumes will be required with lower weights.
For children and adults weighing 33–50kg, the dose is 15mg/kg (1.5ml/kg) up to 4 times daily (max 3g/24 hours) and the volume of Perfalgan administered should never exceed 75ml per dose.

View Perfalgan drug record

Further information: Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharmaceuticals Ltd