ABSTRACT
N-acetylated derivative of p-aminophenol (paracetamol is the generic name used in Great
Britain and several other countries). This nonnarcotic analgesic/antipyretic, available over the
counter in the United States since 1960, is one of the most widely used drugs in the world, and
is available alone and in combination with many other drugs (1). In recommended doses,
acetaminophen is considered to be efficacious and safe, and is not associated with the high
incidence of gastrointestinal bleeding caused by aspirin and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory
drugs, or with the development of Reye’s syndrome.
