Acetaminophen - Cumulative Effect Can Cause Acute Liver Failure

Acetaminophen, commonly known as Tylenol, is regarded as one of the safest pain relievers. Reportedly, over 100 million people/year take acetaminophen for various painful conditions, including arthritis. Liver damage occurs in a relatively small number of people who take acetaminophen, yet accidental overdose and acute liver failure caused by acetaminophen is recognized as a growing problem. Though labels of products containing acetaminophen disclose how much of the ingredient is in the product, some people put themselves at risk by not keeping track of their total daily intake of acetaminophen.

• Use Caution With Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
• Possible Acetaminophen Side Effects From Long-Term Use / High Doses

Acetaminophen is in many narcotic drugs available only by prescription, such as Darvocet, Vicodin, and Percocet. Acetaminophen is also in many over-the-counter headache, cold, sinus, and flu medications. The total acetaminophen intake per day must be tracked. It is recommended that adults take no more than 4,000 mg/day of acetaminophen (the equivalent of 8 extra-strength 500 mg tablets or capsules). Because acetaminophen is considered "safe", patients are too often careless about their total daily intake.

• More About Acetaminophen
• The Facts of Analgesics (Painkillers)
• The Pain Relief Quiz
• 10 Ways To Increase Your Pain
• Pain Management: Ways to Manage Your Pain

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