Tylenol

Brand Names

Tylenol

What is Tylenol

Tylenol (acetaminophen) is a non-prescription medicine that relieves pain and reduces fever. Unlike other non-prescription pain relievers, Tylenol almost does not cause ulcers and interact with other medications. Unfortunately, it can cause liver damage, especially when taken at very high doses or in people who already have liver damage.


Side effects of Tylenol

If you have noticed any of the following side effects, you should stop taking Tylenol and contact your doctor at once:

  • rash
  • hives
  • itching
  • swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles or lower legs
  • hoarseness
  • difficulty breathing or swallowing


Indication

Tylenol is used to decrease fever and relieve pain. It is very important to note that Tylenol does not reduce swelling, like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin and ibuprofen, but it can cause stomach upset and other side effects.

Tylenol is used in the treatment of minor aches and pains due to the following problems:

  • Headaches
  • Muscle aches
  • Backaches
  • Arthritis
  • The common cold
  • Toothache
  • Premenstrual and menstrual cramps
  • The flu


Precautions

Before taking Tylenol, you should inform your doctor if you have:

  • Liver disease such as cirrhosis, liver failure or hepatitis
  • G6PD deficiency
  • Any allergies including allergies to food, dyes or preservatives
  • Are pregnant, thinking of becoming pregnant or breastfeeding
  • Drink alcohol regularly
  • Are taking any other medicines, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins and herbal supplements


Dosage forms

Tylenol dose for adults: is 650 mg, taken every 4 hours, as needed, up to 4 times in a 24-hour period. You should not take more than 4,000 mg in a 24-hour period.

Tylenol dose for your child's weight

Child's weight in pounds Child's weight in kilograms Dose of medicine
Less than 24.0 Less than 11.0 Ask a doctor
24.0-30.0 11.0-13.5 160 mg-200 mg
31.0-36.0 14.0-16.5 200 mg-240 mg
37.0-42.0 16.5-19.0 240 mg-280 mg
43.0-47.0 19.5-21.0 280 mg-320 mg
48.0-55.0 21.5-25.0 320 mg-380 mg
56.0-75.0 25.5-34.0 380 mg-500 mg
76.0-89.0 34.5-40.5 500 mg-600 mg
Over 90.0 Over 40.5 650 mg (adult dose)