Health & Wellness with Tylenol
Eugene Kupiec, PharmD
Tylenol is the #1 doctor recommended brand for pain relief and fever reduction. This drug has been used for almost 70 years and millions of Americans trust Tylenol to get the job done every week! Tylenol can be used for nearly everyone ranging from infants to the elderly. Tylenol is NOT an NSAID like aspirin or ibuprofen, it works differently. It does not have the same blood “thinning” action as many NSAIDs do making Tylenol a great option for those already on blood thinners, those with a history of gastrointestinal bleeding, and anyone else who cannot take NSAIDs.
Pain hits fast and Tylenol is prepared to provide fast relief. Tylenol is available in caplets, liquids, and even in Rapid Release Gels. TYLENOL® Rapid Release Gels have laser drilled holes for release that helps the medication act fast for fast pain relief with the convenience of a capsule. Tylenol also has extended-release tablets for those with around the clock pain! Whether it’s a headache, fever, aches, or pains, Tylenol has been proven effective, but what about safety?
Safety
Tylenol is also called acetaminophen, paracetamol, or is sometimes abbreviated as “APAP”. It has been clinically proven to be safe and effective when taken as directed. It is important to read the box when taking Tylenol and follow the dosing instructions carefully. The maximum safe daily dose of Tylenol to be taken orally is 4000mg or 4g daily. That would be two extra strength tablets every 6 hours for 24 hours.
This dosing threshold is so important because Tylenol in larger doses than 4g per day can cause serious liver damage. For this reason, it is also important to look out for other medications that may have acetaminophen in them. Some branded medications that contain acetaminophen are Excedrin, Nyquil, Sudafed, Theraflu, Percocet, Fioricet, Ultracet, and Vicodin to name a few! If you are taking Tylenol, always check the label of a new medication to ensure you are not exceeding the 4g/day threshold. Now head over to your local Price Chopper or Market 32 and find the Tylenol product that is right for you! If you are unsure about a product or about safety, you can always ask your pharmacist or doctor.
