Tylenol: Effective Pain and Fever Relief You Can Trust
Tylenol
| Product dosage: 500mg | |||
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| 360 | $0.19
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Synonyms | |||
Tylenol (acetaminophen) is a leading over-the-counter analgesic and antipyretic medication, clinically proven to provide safe and effective relief from mild to moderate pain and fever. As a non-aspirin pain reliever, it operates through a distinct mechanism that targets the central nervous system, making it a suitable option for a wide patient demographic when used as directed. Its well-established safety profile and efficacy have made it a first-line recommendation among healthcare professionals for decades. This comprehensive product card provides detailed medical information for appropriate usage.
Features
- Contains acetaminophen as the sole active ingredient (500 mg per caplet/tablet in regular strength formulations)
- Available in multiple formats: caplets, tablets, gelcaps, liquid gels, and liquid suspensions for pediatric use
- Rapid absorption and onset of action for prompt symptom relief
- Non-prescription (OTC) status with clear dosing guidelines
- Formulated without aspirin or NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)
- Coating designed for easy swallowing (in applicable forms)
Benefits
- Provides targeted relief from headaches, muscle aches, arthritis pain, backaches, and menstrual cramps.
- Effectively reduces fever associated with colds, flu, and immunizations.
- Gentle on the stomach for most individuals, unlike some NSAID pain relievers.
- Suitable for many patients who cannot take aspirin or ibuprofen due to contraindications.
- Does not interfere with blood clotting, making it appropriate for pre- and post-surgical pain management.
- Available without a prescription, allowing for convenient access to effective symptom management.
Common use
Tylenol is commonly used for the temporary relief of minor aches and pains. This includes, but is not limited to, headache, muscular aches, backache, minor arthritis pain, toothache, and the pain associated with the common cold. It is also indicated for the temporary reduction of fever. It is not intended for chronic pain management without medical supervision and is most effective for acute, episodic symptoms.
Dosage and direction
Adults and children 12 years and over:
- Take 2 caplets (1000 mg) every 4 to 6 hours while symptoms persist.
- Do not exceed 6 caplets (3000 mg) in 24 hours, unless directed by a doctor.
- Swallow whole with a full glass of water.
Children (under 12 years):
- Use only products labeled for pediatric use and consult the specific dosing chart based on weight and age.
- Do not administer adult formulations to children.
- Always use the measuring device provided with the liquid product; do not use a household spoon.
Do not use for more than 10 days for pain or 3 days for fever unless directed by a doctor.
Precautions
- Do not exceed the maximum daily dose. Acetaminophen overdose can cause severe liver damage.
- Consult a doctor if pain worsens or persists for more than 10 days, or if fever worsens or persists for more than 3 days.
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, ask a healthcare professional before use.
- If you consume 3 or more alcoholic drinks every day, ask your doctor if you should take acetaminophen.
- Keep out of reach of children. In case of overdose, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away.
Contraindications
Tylenol is contraindicated in patients with:
- Known severe hypersensitivity to acetaminophen or any component of the formulation.
- Severe hepatic impairment or active liver disease.
Possible side effects
In rare instances, serious side effects can occur. However, when taken at recommended doses, acetaminophen is generally well-tolerated.
- Serious side effects (seek medical help immediately): rash, hives, itching, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, or eyes; hoarseness; unusual tiredness; nausea; pain in the upper right stomach; itching; loss of appetite; dark urine; clay-colored stools; jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes). These could be signs of a rare but serious allergic reaction or liver injury.
- Less serious side effects: These are uncommon but may include headache or insomnia.
Drug interaction
Acetaminophen may interact with other medications, potentially altering their effects or increasing the risk of adverse reactions.
- Warfarin: Long-term use of acetaminophen may increase the risk of bleeding in patients taking warwafin.
- Isoniazid: May increase the risk of liver damage.
- Other products containing acetaminophen: Concurrent use can lead to accidental overdose. Carefully check the labels of all other medicines you are using (e.g., for colds, allergies, sleep, or pain) as they may also contain acetaminophen.
- Alcohol: Chronic excessive alcohol consumption increases the risk of liver toxicity.
- Certain anticonvulsants (e.g., carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital): May increase the risk of liver damage.
Always inform your doctor or pharmacist of all the products you use, including prescription drugs, non-prescription drugs, and herbal products.
Missed dose
This medication is typically taken on an as-needed basis for pain or fever. It is not intended for scheduled dosing. Therefore, a “missed dose” is not generally applicable. If you are on a scheduled dosing regimen as directed by a physician, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Overdose
Acetaminophen overdose is a medical emergency that can be fatal.
- Early symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, sweating, confusion, or weakness.
- Later signs of liver damage may include pain in the upper abdomen, dark urine, and yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice).
- In case of suspected overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 or seek emergency medical attention immediately, even if the patient does not have any symptoms. Prompt administration of the antidote, N-acetylcysteine, is critical and is most effective if started within 8 hours of ingestion.
Storage
- Store at room temperature (20°-25°C or 68°-77°F).
- Keep the bottle tightly closed and protect from excessive moisture and heat.
- Do not store in the bathroom.
- Keep all medications out of sight and reach of children and pets.
Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or before starting any new treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here. The product information provided is based on the standard labeling for Tylenol and may not be exhaustive. Always read and follow the label on the product packaging.
Reviews
“As a primary care physician, I frequently recommend Tylenol to my patients for its efficacy in managing acute pain and fever and its favorable gastrointestinal side effect profile compared to NSAIDs. Its predictable pharmacokinetics make it a cornerstone of symptomatic treatment.” — Dr. Evelyn Reed, MD, Internal Medicine
“I’ve relied on Tylenol for years to manage my tension headaches. It works effectively without upsetting my stomach, which is a significant issue for me with other pain relievers. I appreciate knowing the precise dosing limits to use it safely.” — Mark T., verified purchaser
“This is our go-to fever reducer for our children. The pediatric liquid formulation with the provided syringe allows for accurate and easy dosing based on weight. It brings down fevers quickly and effectively.” — Sarah J., parent