Pharmacokinetics and antipyretic effects of an injectable pro‐drug of paracetamol (propacetamol) in children

Abstract

Summary Propacetamol is a soluble injectable form of paracetamol, which is quickly hydrolysed after intravenous injection. We report the pharmacokinetic results of this drug in children between 10 months and 14 years of age. Three minutes after an i.v. administration of 15 mgkg ‐1 the mean plasma paracetamol concentration was about 25 μgml ‐1 . In a course of repeated administration of propacetamol, the plasma concentration 3 min after the fourth dose remained at about the same value, showing that there was no accumulation of paracetamol. The pharmacokinetic parameters (half life, total clearance and distribution volume) were similar to those in adults. At 15 mgkg ‐1 doses, the antipyretic effect is well‐established.