GGC Paediatric Guidelines
GGC Paediatric Guidelines
PARACETAMOL OVERDOSE GUIDANCE: 12-hr shortened N-acetylcysteine dosing schedule (SNAP protocol)
(FOR > 30KG AND >6 YEARS OF AGE ONLY)
Who is the guidance for:
- Children aged 6 years and over and weighing 30kg or more.
If under 6 OR less than 30 kg then refer to toxbase for guidance AND discuss with ED / acute paediatric team senior. - For use in NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHS GG&C) only.
Does the patient require N-acetylcysteine (NAC)?:
For patients aged 6 years and over - If the patient has ingested less than 75 mg/kg of paracetamol, it is unlikely that serious toxicity will occur. For all other cases see specific assessment and treatment flowcharts below.
- Intentional paracetamol overdose in a single time period (ingested total overdose in less than a 1 hour time period):
- Staggered intentional paracetamol overdose (Ingested total overdose in more than 1 hour time period in the context of self harm. Includes patients where time of ingestion is unknown).
- Serious toxicity may occur in patients ingesting >150mg/kg in any 24 hour period, rarely toxicity may occur in patients ingesting 75 - 150 mg/kg in any 24 hour period
- Therapeutic excess paracetamol overdose (ingested total overdose in more than 1 hour time period with NO self harm intent).
