Reversibly inhibits cyclooxygenase, mostly in CNS.- inactivated peripherally

Clinical use:- antipyretic- analgesic- not anti-inflammatory- used instead of aspirin to avoid Reye syndrome in children with viral infection

Adverse effects:- Overdose produces hepatic necrosis- Acetaminophen metabolite (NAPQI) depletes glutathione and forms toxic tissue biproducts in liver- N-acetylcysteine ist antidote – regenerates glutathione