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Acetaminophen

Brand names: Tylenol

Acetaminophen relieves pain and lowers fever. It's gentle on the stomach but can damage the liver if you take too much.

Brand namesTylenol
Type of medicinePain reliever and fever reducer
Prescription?Over the counter (also in many prescription combinations)
ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.

Overview

It doesn't reduce swelling the way NSAIDs do.

It is in hundreds of products, including cold and flu medicines and prescription pain pills (it may be listed as APAP). Taking two products with acetaminophen is a common cause of overdose.

What it's used for

  • Headache, muscle aches, toothache, back pain, and arthritis pain
  • Fever
  • Pain during pregnancy (when needed)

How to take it

  • Follow the label and never take more than the maximum daily amount.
  • Check all your medicine labels for acetaminophen or APAP.
  • For children, dose by weight using the device that comes with the product.

Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.

Side effects

Common side effects

  • Few side effects at normal doses
Call 911Someone took too much, even if they feel fine. Liver damage can take a day or more to show. Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222.
Call 911Red, peeling, or blistering skin rash
Call your provider todayYellow skin or eyes, dark urine, or pain in the upper right belly

Warnings

  • Daily drinking (3 or more drinks) raises the risk of liver damage.
  • Ask a provider before using it if you have liver disease.

Other medicines, foods, and alcohol

  • Taking it regularly can raise the effect of warfarin.
  • Other products that contain acetaminophen add up toward the daily limit.

Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Often recommended for pain or fever in pregnancy when needed. Use the lowest dose for the shortest time and check with your provider.

Missed doses, overdose, and storage

If you miss a dose

This medicine is often taken only when needed. If you take it on a schedule, take a missed dose when you remember, unless it's almost time for the next one. Don't double up.

If someone takes too much

An acetaminophen overdose is an emergency even if the person feels fine. Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 right away, or 911 if the person collapses or can't be woken. Treatment works best when started early.

Storing it

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.

Conditions it's used for

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.