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Updated: Aug 29, 2026

Determining Pain Detection and Tolerance Thresholds Using an Integrated, Multi-Modal Pain Task Battery
Published on: April 14, 2016
[Role of paracetamol in the acute pain management]
Henrik Kehlet1, Mads Utke Werner
1Département de Chirurgie Digestive 435 et Centre Anti-douleur, Département d'Anesthésie, Hôpital Universitaire de Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Danemark. henrik.kehlet@hh.hosp.dk
Abstract:
Paracetamol (acetaminophen) has been shown to be an effective analgesic for the treatment of moderate pain where it is chiefly indicated, as shown in placebo-controlled studies in the perioperative setting and other acute pain states. In addition, an opioid-sparing effect has been demonstrated. No clinically relevant adverse effects are usually apparent with recommended doses. Paracetamol is an effective component in 'multimodal analgesia' in combination with morphine, weak opioids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Although most studies involve the perioperative setting, similar results have been obtained in other acute pain states, such as acute musculoskeletal pain, migraine, etc. In conclusion, paracetamol has a favourable efficacy-tolerability profile and is therefore recommended as a basic, first-line analgesic in acute pain states and as a valuable component in multimodal analgesia.
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