SNAP: new protocol for treating paracetamol overdose in the ED

The SNAP protocol is recommended for the treatment of patients who have overdosed on paracetamol as it reduces risk of anaphylactoid reactions and drug errors

What is paracetamol poisoning and why does it occur?

Paracetamol is a non-opioid analgesic and antipyretic agent. For adults, the maximum dose is 4g a day, split into 1g every four to six hours, unless they weigh under 50kg where the maximum dose will be either 2g for those weighing under 40kg, and 3g for those weighing 41-49kg. For children, the dose will depend on their age and weight.