The pharmacokinetic profile of intravenous paracetamol in adult patients undergoing major abdominal surgery: A population analysis

The aim of the present study was to determine the effect of major surgery on paracetamol glucuronidation and sulfation. 53 patients were given doses of either 1, 1.5 or 2 g of paracetamol by intravenous (IV) infusion. A combination of rich and sparse plasma and urine samples were collected over a 7 day period (Day 0 being preoperative collection and Days 1 to 6 being postoperative collection) for up to 12 hours after each dosing. The samples were analysed by high-pressure liquid chromatography to determine the amount of paracetamol and metabolites. The data were modelled in Phoenix NLME using a user-defined population parent-metabolite model with linear disposition. The results of this study will be presented at the PAGANZ 2012 Scientific Meeting.

Katie Owens

  • University of Otago