Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Acetaminophen is employed to alleviate mild to moderate pain stemming from various sources such as headaches, muscle discomfort, menstrual cramps, sore throats, dental pain, backaches, and to lower fever. It can also be employed to mitigate the pain associated with osteoarthritis, which results from the deterioration of joint lining. Acetaminophen belongs to a category of drugs known as analgesics (pain relievers) and antipyretics (fever reducers). Its mechanism of action involves altering the body’s perception of pain and assisting in temperature regulation.
Uses and Dosage
Acetaminophen is available in various forms, including tablets, chewable tablets, capsules, suspensions, extended-release tablets, and orally disintegrating tablets. These can be taken orally, with or without food. While acetaminophen can be obtained without a prescription, your doctor may prescribe it for specific conditions.
When administering acetaminophen to a child, select the appropriate product based on the child’s age and weight. Avoid giving children acetaminophen products intended for adults, as they may contain excessive doses for younger individuals. Refer to the package label for dosing guidelines. If you know your child’s weight, administer the dose corresponding to their weight on the chart. If the weight is unknown, use the dose suitable for your child’s age, and consult your child’s doctor if you are unsure.
Acetaminophen is also included in combination products designed to treat cough and cold symptoms. Seek guidance from your doctor or pharmacist to determine the best product for your specific symptoms. Before using multiple nonprescription cough and cold products concurrently, carefully inspect the labels, as these products may contain the same active ingredients. Combining them could lead to an overdose, a particularly important consideration when giving cough and cold medications to children.
For extended-release tablets, swallow them whole without splitting, chewing, crushing, or dissolving. Orally disintegrating tablets should either be placed in the mouth to dissolve or chewed before swallowing. Shake the suspension thoroughly before each use to ensure even distribution of the medication. Always utilize the measuring cup or syringe provided by the manufacturer to measure each dose of the solution or suspension. Avoid interchanging dosing devices between different products; stick to the device included with the product packaging.
If your symptoms worsen or if new or unexpected symptoms, such as redness or swelling, emerge, discontinue acetaminophen and contact your doctor. Seek medical advice if your pain persists for over 10 days or if your fever worsens or lasts for more than 3 days.
If you are administering acetaminophen to a child and they experience new symptoms, prolonged pain lasting more than 5 days, or a fever that worsens or persists for more than 3 days, stop giving them acetaminophen and consult their doctor.
Side Effects
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- red, peeling or blistering skin
- rash
- hives
- itching
- swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
- hoarseness
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
Caution
Prior to taking acetaminophen, communicate with your doctor or pharmacist if you have any known allergies. This medication may also contain inactive ingredients that could potentially trigger allergic reactions or other complications.
Before initiating this treatment, provide your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, particularly if you have a history of liver disease or if you regularly consume or have a history of alcohol abuse.
Certain forms of acetaminophen, such as liquid products, chewable tablets, or dissolving/effervescent tablets and powders, may include sugar or aspartame. If you have conditions like diabetes, phenylketonuria (PKU), or any other medical condition that necessitates dietary restrictions on these substances, exercise caution. To safely use these products, seek advice from your doctor or pharmacist if you have any of these medical conditions.
Inform your doctor if you are pregnant before starting this medication.
Acetaminophen can enter breast milk. If you are breastfeeding, consult with your doctor before continuing or commencing this treatment.
Form and Strength
Tylenol Regular is available in the following forms and strengths:
-
Tylenol Regular tablet:
- 325mg
FAQ
Is Tylenol a safe drug?
Tylenol is relatively safe when taken at the correct dosage, ingesting too much of the drug can lead to serious complications, including liver failure.
How long does it take for Tylenol to kick in?
It usually takes around 45 minutes for oral tablets and extended-release tablets to start working when taken on an empty stomach.
Resources
- https://www.drugwatch.com/drugs/tylenol/#:~:text=The%20popular%20pain%20reliever%20Tylenol,serious%20complications%2C%20including%20liver%20failure
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a681004.html
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-7076/tylenol-oral/details
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/acetaminophen-oral-route-rectal-route/side-effects/drg-20068480
- https://www.drugs.com/tylenol.html
