Acetaminophen Side Effects
Serious side effects of Acetaminophen
- Acetaminophen overdose, which occurs when a patient takes too much of this medication, can cause the liver failure, which is characterized by pain in the upper right section of the abdomen, yellowing of the eyes or skin (jaundice), seizures, loss of appetite, nausea with or without vomiting, and, in serious cases, death or coma.
- Ulcers or intestinal bleeding may also form while taking this medication, although these side effects are more rare.
- As with most medications there is the risk for a rare but serious allergic reaction, known as anaphylaxis, which can cause swelling of the face and throat, dizziness, rash, itching, or hives.
Common side effects of Acetaminophen
Acetaminophen typically does not cause any side effects as long as it is taken as instructed. However, no medication is perfect, and acetaminophen may cause feelings of anxiety or nervousness, sleep problems, or stomach problems, such as nausea, vomiting, or constipation.
If any of these commons symptoms persist, or if any serious side effects occur, alert your doctor immediately as this can be a sign of a more serious condition.
Warnings & Recalls for Acetaminophen
Acetaminophen Black Box Warning
Prescription versions of acetaminophen that are used in combination medications have been assigned a black box label by the FDA due to the increased risk for liver failure. This serious condition is more likely to occur in patients who take high doses of this medication, or who intentionally abuse this drug and take more than instructed. If you or someone you know is taking a prescription medication which contains acetaminophen, exhibit caution and follow the instructions given to you by your doctor. If you experience any symptoms of liver failure (see '
Side Effects' tab) seek medical help immediately.
General Warnings when taking Acetaminophen
- Do not drink alcohol while taking this medication, particularly in amounts over 3 drinks. This can interfere with the effectiveness of this medication and increase the risk for serious side effects.
- Patients who are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, should consult their doctor before using or continuing use of this medication, as it has been assigned a Category C pregnancy label by the FDA.
- If you have a history or kidney or liver disease, tell your doctor. These conditions can cause issues with how you react to this medication, and can result in unwanted symptoms.
- If you are taking any other medications, including but not limited to acenocoumarol, carbamazepine, or warfarin, tell your healthcare physician.
Acetaminophen Treatment and Use
Acetaminophen is the generic version of the painkiller Tylenol, and is used to treat the many forms of mild to moderate pain, including, but not limited to:
- headaches
- menstrual cramps
- arthritis
- back and muscle pain
Acetaminophen is also used to relieve inflammatory pain, such as fever or symptoms of the common cold. Acetaminophen is an analgesic and antipyretic medication that comes in many different forms, ranging from tablets to liquid suspensions to extended-release tablets.
How does Acetaminophen work?
Acetaminophen works to alter the body’s perception of pain and decrease the inflammatory response by inhibiting the action of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins protect the body from harm by inducing fever and inflammation. Sometimes these necessary responses can be overactive and produce unwanted pain; Acetaminophen decreases this activity to soothe minor aches and pains.
Acetaminophen Dosage Information
The dosage of acetaminophen that a patient should take is dependent on several factors such as age, the condition being treated, and the type of medication being used (extended-release capsules, tablets, concentrated drops, etc.). Pay close attention to all labels and instructions, and do not take more of this medication than suggested. Overdosing on acetaminophen can result in liver damage, which in some rare but serious cases can cause death or irreversible damage that may require a liver transplant.
