Acetaminophen is used to treat mild to moderate pain and to reduce fever. This drug comes in different forms such as capsules, liquid, chewable or disintegrating tablets, and dissolving powders or granules.
When should we take Acetaminophen?
- Pains that are associated with colds and flu,
- Pain like Headache,
- Pain like Toothache,
- Menstrual period pain,
- Osteoarthritis pain,
- Backaches pain,
- Muscle aches,
- Sore throat,
- Reducing fever.
How to take Acetaminophen?
- It is recommended to follow the directions on the package or as prescribed by your doctor.
- Take a tablet with or without meals.
- The chewable tablet must be chewed thoroughly before you swallow it.
- The oral powder should be placed directly on the tongue and swallowed.
- You can take the second and third dose in a minimum gap of 4-6 hours to lower body temperatures and body pain.
- It is advised not to take more than 8 tablets in 24 hours.
- Be aware that you should not take more than 4000 mg of acetaminophen per day.
- Taking more than recommended could cause damage to your liver.
Side Effects of Acetaminophen
- Rash,
- Red, peeling, or blistering skin
- Swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
- Nausea,
- Headache.
- Hypersensitivity reactions
- Serious skin reactions
- Severe dizziness,
- Trouble breathing
- Kidney damage
- Anaemia
- Reduced number of platelets in the blood
Symptoms of Overdose
- Vomiting,
- Loss of appetite,
- Nausea,
- Sweating,
- Extreme tiredness,
- Unusual bleeding or bruising,
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes,
- Flu-like symptoms,
- Pain in the upper right part of the stomach,
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes,
Composition of Acetaminophen
- It is a mild analgesic (pain reliever) and antipyretic (fever-reducing agent).
When Should you consult a doctor before taking Acetaminophen?
- If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding,
- long-term malnutrition,
- If you have severe kidney disease,
- If you have Jaundice,
- If you have hypovolemia,
- If you take other medications that contain acetaminophen,
- If you’ve ever had cirrhosis of the liver,
- If you drink alcohol daily.
What happens if I take more or fewer Medicines?
- Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it’s been too late, then you should never take a double dose at a time to make up for a missed one as it may be harmful to the liver.
- It is advised not to take more than 8 tablets in 24 hours. Always remember, A daily dose should not exceed more than 4 gm or 4000 mg per day. Taking more than recommended could cause damage to your liver.
- If you get loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, sweating, and weakness, then stop taking this medicine and go to a hospital.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Should I take Acetaminophen during Pregnancy?
If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, consume only if prescribed by your doctor.
Is Acetaminophen recommended for children?
A child’s dose is based on age and weight. Ask a doctor before giving Acetaminophen to a child younger than 2 years. The use of this medicine in young children can cause serious and life-threatening effects or death.
Should I take Acetaminophen during driving?
Safe to use before driving as it doesn’t affect awareness & driving ability.
Should I take Acetaminophen while consuming alcohol?
Alcohol should not be consumed with this medicine as it will increase the chances of liver damage and also leads to excessive drowsiness or dizziness. Thus it is not recommended to be taken with alcohol.
Should I take Acetaminophen if I have a Kidney problem?
This medicine should be taken cautiously, especially if you have a history of Kidney diseases/conditions. The dose may have to be adjusted by the advice of your doctor.
Should I take Acetaminophen if I have a Liver problem?
This medicine should be taken cautiously, especially if you have a history of Liver diseases/conditions. The dose may have to be adjusted by the advice of your doctor.
Can I use Acetaminophen for relief of stomach Pain?
Stomach pain may be due to various reasons most commonly due to acidity, stomach ulcers, or gastrointestinal bleeding. So, it is advisable not to use it to relieve stomach pain, instead consult a doctor.
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