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Acetaminophen |
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What is Acetaminophen and why is it prescribed? Acetaminophen is a fever and pain reducing medication. It is widely used to relieve simple headaches and muscle aches, the minor aches and pains associated with the common cold, backache, toothache, minor pain of arthritis, and menstrual cramps. Do not use Acetaminophen to relieve pain for more than 10 days, or to reduce fever for more than 3 days unless your doctor has specifically told you to do so. How should you take Acetaminophen? Follow your doctors directions for taking Acetaminophen. Do not take more Acetaminophen than is recommended. Take this medication only as needed. Store Acetaminophen at room temperature. Protect extra strength gelcaps and geltabs from high humidity and excessive heat. Keep the extended relief caplets away from high heat. Are there any Acetaminophen side effects? Acetaminophen side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Acetaminophen is relatively free of side effects. Rarely, an allergic reaction may occur. If you develop any allergic symptoms such as rash, hives, swelling, or difficulty breathing, stop taking Acetaminophen immediately and notify your doctor. What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Acetaminophen? If Acetaminophen is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Acetaminophen with Alcohol, Cholestyramine (Questran), Isoniazid (Nydrazid), Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (such as Dolobid and Motrin), Oral Contraceptives, Phenytoin (Dilantin), Warfarin (Coumadin), or Zidovudine (Retrovir). Acetaminophen should not be used with other products containing Acetaminophen. Are there any special warnings about Acetaminophen? Stop taking Acetaminophen and check with your doctor if you develop new symptoms, if redness or swelling are present, if pain gets worse or lasts more than 10 days, or if fever gets worse or lasts more than three days. If you generally drink three or more alcoholic beverages per day, check with your doctor about using Acetaminophen and other acetaminophen-containing products, and never take more than the recommended dosage. There is a possibility of damage to the liver when large amounts of alcohol and acetaminophen are combined. |
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Information on this website is provided for educational purposes and should not replace discussions with your doctor. |
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