Paracetamol overdose

Paracetamol - serum.

Time since ingestion must be known to assess significance of levels - see Figure 2. 

Final assessment of likely drug toxicity should not be made while the patient is still in the absorptive phase (ie, while levels are still increasing).

Once absorption is complete, a second level, taken 3-4 hours after the first, enables half-life to be calculated. If increased, this is another indicator of toxicity.

Urea, creatinine; protein - urine.