Degradation of paracetamol and other constituents in Perfalgan®

Abstract

Background: The manufacturers of Perfalgan®, a formulation of intravenous paracetamol, recommend that each ampoule be used once only. This is most likely due to concerns regarding degradation of paracetamol or other ingredients in the solution, and sterility issues. However, in South Africa, where the expense of this drug limits use, some centres use one ampoule for multiple paediatric cases over the course of 12–24 hours. No obvious clinical adverse effects have been reported.