The Medical journal of Australia
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To determine the annual incidence of admissions for paracetamol overdosage in the years 1985 to 1990, morbidity and mortality rates, predictors of poor prognosis and the most appropriate use of N-acetylcysteine (NAC). ⋯ Paracetamol overdosage continues to be a significant cause of hospital admissions in western Sydney. Severe hepatic damage occurs infrequently and the prognosis for liver injury, when it occurs, is good. Treatment with NAC should be reserved for patients with definite indications for the drug.