Napa Syrup

Indications

Napa is effective for alleviating a variety of conditions including fever, common cold, influenza, headaches, toothaches, earaches, body aches, myalgia, neuralgia, dysmenorrhea, sprains, colic pain, back pain, post-operative pain, postpartum pain, inflammatory pain, and post-vaccination pain in children. It is also beneficial for managing rheumatic and osteoarthritic pain, as well as joint stiffness.

Pharmacology

Paracetamol, also known as acetaminophen, possesses analgesic (pain-relieving) and antipyretic (fever-reducing) properties, with limited anti-inflammatory effects. It primarily operates within the central nervous system (CNS) by elevating the pain threshold through the inhibition of cyclooxygenase enzymes (COX-1, COX-2, and COX-3), which are crucial in prostaglandin (PG) synthesis. As a derivative of para-aminophenol, paracetamol is one of the safest and most effective pain relievers available, providing rapid relief without the common side effects associated with aspirin.

Dosage & Administration

• Tablets:
  • Adults: 1-2 tablets every 4 to 6 hours, not exceeding 4 grams (8 tablets) per day.
  • Children (6-12 years): ½ to 1 tablet 3 to 4 times daily, with a maximum of 2.6 grams per day for prolonged use.
• Extended Release Tablets:
  • Adults & Children over 12 years: 2 tablets every 6 to 8 hours, up to 6 tablets in 24 hours. Do not crush.
• Syrup/Suspension:
  • Children under 3 months: 10 mg/kg body weight (5 mg/kg if jaundiced) 3 to 4 times daily.
  • 3 months to under 1 year: ½ to 1 teaspoonful 3 to 4 times daily.
  • 1-5 years: 1-2 teaspoonfuls 3 to 4 times daily.
  • 6-12 years: 2-4 teaspoonfuls 3 to 4 times daily.
  • Adults: 4-8 teaspoonfuls 3 to 4 times daily.
• Suppositories:
  • Children 3-12 months: 60-120 mg, 4 times daily.
  • Children 1-5 years: 125-250 mg, 4 times daily.
  • Children 6-12 years: 250-500 mg, 4 times daily.
  • Adults & Children over 12 years: 0.5-1 gram, 4 times daily.
• Pediatric Drops:
  • Children up to 3 months: 0.5 ml (40 mg)
  • 4 to 11 months: 1.0 ml (80 mg)
  • 1 to 2 years: 1.5 ml (120 mg). Limit to 5 doses daily for a maximum of 5 days.
• Paracetamol Tablets with Actizorb Technology: Dissolves up to five times faster than standard tablets, offering quick relief. Suitable for patients who cannot tolerate aspirin or other analgesics.
  • Adults and Children (12 years and older): 1 to 2 tablets every 4 to 6 hours as needed, not exceeding 8 tablets in 24 hours.
  • Children (7-11 years): ½ to 1 tablet every 4 to 6 hours as needed, not exceeding 4 tablets in 24 hours. Not recommended for children under 7 years.

Consult a healthcare provider before use.

Interactions

Use with caution in patients who have consumed barbiturates, tricyclic antidepressants, or alcohol, as these can impair the metabolism of large doses of Napa. Chronic use of anticonvulsants or oral steroid contraceptives may increase liver enzyme activity, potentially reducing Napa’s efficacy. Alcohol can heighten the risk of liver toxicity in case of an overdose.

Contraindications

Napa should not be used by individuals with known hypersensitivity to Paracetamol.

Side Effects

Napa is generally well-tolerated, but potential side effects include mild hematological reactions (e.g., thrombocytopenia, leucopenia) and, less commonly, pancreatitis, skin rashes, and allergic reactions.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Studies have not shown significant adverse effects of Paracetamol when used at recommended doses during pregnancy. It is excreted in breast milk in negligible amounts. Always consult with a healthcare provider regarding its use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Precautions & Warnings

Caution is advised when administering Napa to individuals with severe renal or hepatic impairment. Overdose risks are higher in patients with alcoholic liver disease. Adhere strictly to prescribed doses and avoid concurrent use with other Napa-containing products.

Overdose Effects

Overdosing on Napa can lead to severe liver damage, especially with doses of 10 grams or more. Symptoms within the first 24 hours may include pallor, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and abdominal pain. Liver damage might become apparent 12 to 48 hours after ingestion, with potential progression to hepatic failure, encephalopathy, bleeding, hypoglycemia, and cerebral edema. Immediate medical intervention is crucial, with treatments including activated charcoal (if within 1 hour of ingestion), N-acetylcysteine (preferably within 8 hours), and supportive care. For severe cases beyond 24 hours, consult with a liver specialist.

Therapeutic Class

Non-opioid analgesics.

Storage Conditions

Store in a cool, dry place, away from light and heat. Keep out of reach of children.