Question

A patient presents after consuming 10 tablets of paracetamol in a suspected overdoseWhich of the following is the appropriate antidote?

• A. Naloxone
• B. N-acetylcysteine
• C. Pralidoxime
• D. Nalmefene

Hint:

Paracetamol overdose → Toxic metabolite (NAPQI) → Give N-acetylcysteine to replenish glutathione.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding Paracetamol Overdose.
Paracetamol (acetaminophen) overdose can cause severe liver damageIt is metabolized in the liver and produces a toxic metabolite called N-acetyl-p-benzoquinone imine (NAPQI)In overdose situations, glutathione stores become depleted leading to hepatocellular injury
Step 2: Mechanism of Antidote.
N-acetylcysteine (NAC) acts as a precursor of glutathioneIt replenishes hepatic glutathione stores and enhances detoxification of the toxic metabolite NAPQIEarly administration significantly reduces liver damage and improves prognosis
Step 3: Excluding Other Options.
Naloxone and Nalmefene are opioid antagonists used in opioid overdose
Pralidoxime is used in organophosphate poisoning
Therefore, these are not appropriate for paracetamol toxicity
Step 4: Conclusion.
Since N-acetylcysteine directly counteracts the toxic effects of paracetamol overdose, the correct answer is N-acetylcysteine