Paracetamol overdose assessment (UK TOXBASE pathway)
A source-linked educational visual of paracetamol overdose assessment that directs clinicians to current case-specific TOXBASE and NPIS advice.
Important safety note
This visual algorithm is an educational representation of published UK clinical guidance and is not a substitute for clinical judgement, local protocols, senior/specialist advice, or the original guideline. Verify current guidance before clinical use.
Scope and source
- Scope
- Adults with possible paracetamol overdose or excess ingestion in UK emergency and acute-care services.
- Jurisdiction
- UK
- Primary guidance
- TOXBASE: Paracetamol overdose entry
- Guidance last updated
- 2026-09-08
- Clinical reference reviewed
- 2026-09-08
- Review due
- 2027-03-08
Interactive clinical algorithm
This source-backed visual algorithm is available in the interactive page experience. Open the original guidance and the node notes before clinical use.
How to read this visual
- Read across the columns for the phases of the pathway; the swimlanes are who acts — Emergency team, Resuscitation and critical care, Toxicology service (TOXBASE/NPIS).
- Bold marks the dose, threshold or time limit that decides the next step; the rest of a label is context.
- Stabilise first, then establish timing, product, amount, ingestion pattern and co-ingestants.
- Use the TOXBASE decision to obtain the live investigation, treatment and disposition plan.
Clinical notes
- Do not use this visual, a historic printout or an online copied nomogram instead of current TOXBASE advice.
- Include psychosocial assessment, safeguarding and intentional-overdose care in the disposition plan.
Sources
- TOXBASE clinical toxicology database (National Poisons Information Service; Live database; access current entry)
- NHS: Paracetamol overdose (NHS; 2026-09-08)
Open an editable reference copy
Create a personal educational copy. Verify the live TOXBASE entry before clinical use.