ABSTRACT
Acetaminophen, salicylates, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents are found alone and in combination with other analgesic/antipyretic compounds, in hundreds of over-the-counter and prescription formulas. As such, these agents are routinely reported as products responsible for acute and chronic overdose, with acetaminophen accounting for most poisoning cases within this category. Early treatment and careful evaluation of clinical history leading to the emergency event are paramount in treatment. Activated charcoal is beneficial if administered to an individual who presents within 1 to 2 h post ingestion. The administration of emetics is not recommended, as vomiting can induce aspiration of stomach contents and corrosion of the esophagus and will not remove all stomach contents or sustained-release preparations. Activated charcoal and cathartics are recommended to effectively bind salicylates and to prevent intestinal obstruction due to concretions, respectively. Aspirin is partially hydrolyzed to salicylic acid during absorption and distributed unevenly to all body fluids and tissues.
