EFFECT OF ACETAMINOPHEN ON BLOOD PRESSURE
Acetaminophen produces its analgesic effect by inhibiting the same cyclooxygenase, prostaglandin H2 synthase, that is the target of NSAID and aspirin. However, acetaminophen blocks this enzyme at its peroxidase catalytic rather than at the cyclooxygenase catalytic site. Therefore, the acetaminophen-mediated inhibition is sensitive to changes in the tissue peroxide levels; higher concentrations of peroxide in activated leukocytes and platelets block the effect of acetaminophen on inflammation and platelet thrombosis. However, acetaminophen is able to inhibit prostaglandins in the central nervous system, thus providing relief of pain and fever. Therefore, acetaminophen is not an NSAID or anti-thrombotic agent.
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