What is "propacetamol"

n. A prodrug form of paracetamol.

Propacetamol is a prodrug form of paracetamol which is formed from esterification of paracetamol, and the carboxylic acid diethylglycine. This has the advantage of making it more water-soluble. It is used in post-operative care and is delivered by I.V. It is given if the patient is unable to take oral or rectally delivered paracetamol and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are contraindicated. The onset of analgaesia from propacetamol is more rapid than paracetamol given orally. 2 g of propacetamol are equivalent to 1g of paracetamol.