Clinical update - IV Paracetamol

Important information about the supply paracetamol. 

The volumes of paracetamol 1g/100ml solution for infusion (in plastic and glass presentations) are constrained by NHS England until late November 2023 with an estimated 25% reduction in numbers being sent to the Trust during this period.

All paramedics are required to ensure that the intravenous presentation is only initiated when clinically appropriate and patients switched to oral paracetamol as soon as practical, or to alternative parenteral analgesia if administration via the oral route is not possible.

Clinical Indication as per JRCALC

• Relief of moderate to severe pain and/or symptomatic high temperature. (It is only to be used in the relief of symptomatic high temperature where no other methods are available and oral versions cannot be taken)
• Relief mild to moderate pain in case where patient is allergic to opiates.
• As part of a balanced analgesic regime for severe pain.

The 1g/100 ml presentation is restricted to use in adults, adolescents and children weighing more than 33 kg (approximately 11 years of age).

Published 1st August 2023