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Tension Headache

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Active ingredients
  • Acetaminophen 500 mg
  • Caffeine 65 mg
Other brand names
Drug classes
Central Nervous System Stimulant, Methylxanthine
Dosage form
Tablet, Film Coated
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2007
Label revision date
September 25, 2025
Active ingredients
  • Acetaminophen 500 mg
  • Caffeine 65 mg
Other brand names
Drug classes
Central Nervous System Stimulant, Methylxanthine
Dosage form
Tablet, Film Coated
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
CSA schedule
Not a scheduled drug
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2007
Label revision date
September 25, 2025
Manufacturer
CVS Pharmacy
Registration number
M013
NDC root
59779-824

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Drug Overview

Acetaminophen is a pain reliever that is designed to temporarily relieve minor aches and pains, including headaches and muscular aches. This particular formulation is aspirin-free and also contains caffeine (a stimulant that can enhance the effectiveness of pain relief).

You can use Acetaminophen to help manage tension headaches and other minor discomforts, making it a helpful option for those seeking relief without the use of aspirin.

Uses

You can use this medication to temporarily relieve minor aches and pains, such as headaches and muscular aches. It’s designed to help you feel more comfortable when you're experiencing these common discomforts.

Rest assured, there are no known teratogenic effects (which means it doesn't cause birth defects) associated with this medication, making it a safer option for those who may be concerned about such risks.

Dosage and Administration

It's important to follow the dosage instructions carefully to ensure your safety and effectiveness of the medication. For adults and children aged 12 years and older, you should take 2 caplets every 6 hours as needed. However, make sure not to exceed 6 caplets in a 24-hour period.

If you have a child under 12 years old, it's best to consult a doctor before giving them this medication. Always remember to take only the directed amount to avoid any potential risks.

What to Avoid

It's important to be cautious when using this medication. You should not use it in combination with any other drug that contains acetaminophen, whether it's a prescription or over-the-counter medication. If you're unsure whether a medication contains acetaminophen, please consult your doctor or pharmacist for guidance.

Additionally, be aware that this medication is classified as a controlled substance, which means it has the potential for abuse or misuse. This can lead to dependence (a condition where your body becomes reliant on a substance). Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions and use this medication responsibly.

Side Effects

This product contains acetaminophen, which can lead to severe liver damage if you exceed 4,000 mg in 24 hours, take it with other acetaminophen-containing medications, or consume three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using it. Additionally, be aware that acetaminophen may cause serious skin reactions, such as blisters, rash, or skin reddening. If you notice any skin issues, stop using the product and seek medical help immediately.

The recommended dose also includes caffeine, similar to a cup of coffee, so it's wise to limit other caffeine sources to avoid side effects like nervousness, irritability, sleeplessness, or a rapid heartbeat. If your pain worsens or lasts more than 10 days, or if your fever persists for more than 3 days, consult a doctor. It's also important to talk to a healthcare professional if you have liver disease or are taking the blood thinner warfarin.

Warnings and Precautions

It's important to be aware of some key warnings when using this product. First, it contains acetaminophen, which can lead to severe liver damage if you take more than 4,000 mg in a 24-hour period, use it with other medications containing acetaminophen, or consume three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using it. Additionally, be cautious of potential severe skin reactions, such as blisters, rash, or skin reddening. If you notice any skin reactions, stop using the product and seek medical help immediately. The product also contains caffeine, similar to a cup of coffee, so limit other caffeine sources to avoid nervousness, irritability, or rapid heartbeat.

Before using this product, consult your doctor if you have liver disease or are taking the blood thinner warfarin. If you experience an overdose, seek emergency medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away, as prompt attention is crucial. You should also stop taking the product and call your doctor if your pain worsens or lasts more than 10 days, if your fever worsens or lasts more than 3 days, if you notice any redness or swelling, or if any new symptoms appear.

Overdose

If you suspect an overdose, it’s important to seek medical help immediately or contact a Poison Control Center. This is crucial for both adults and children, even if you don’t see any signs or symptoms of an overdose.

Signs of an overdose can vary, but they may include unusual drowsiness, confusion, or difficulty breathing. Always err on the side of caution and get help right away if you think an overdose has occurred. Your quick action can make a significant difference in ensuring safety and health.

Pregnancy Use

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before using this medication. They can provide guidance on whether it’s safe for you and your baby. Always prioritize your health and the health of your child by seeking expert advice.

Lactation Use

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before using any medication. This ensures that you understand any potential risks and can make informed decisions about your health and the health of your baby. Always prioritize open communication with your doctor regarding your breastfeeding journey.

Pediatric Use

If you have a child under 12 years old, it's important to consult with a doctor before giving them this medication. For those aged 12 and older, the recommended dosage is 2 caplets every 6 hours, but be sure not to exceed 6 caplets in a 24-hour period.

In the event of an overdose, seek medical help immediately for both adults and children, even if there are no noticeable signs or symptoms. Your child's safety is paramount, so always follow these guidelines closely.

Geriatric Use

When it comes to using this medication in older adults, there is no specific information available about dosage adjustments, safety concerns, or special precautions. This means that if you or a loved one is an older adult, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting the medication. They can help determine the best approach based on individual health needs and any other medications being taken. Always prioritize open communication with your healthcare team to ensure safe and effective treatment.

Renal Impairment

If you have kidney problems, it's important to know that the drug insert does not provide specific information about dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or safety considerations for your condition. This means that there are no tailored guidelines for how this medication may affect you if your kidneys are not functioning properly.

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to ensure that any medication you take is safe and appropriate for your kidney health. They can help monitor your condition and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.

Hepatic Impairment

If you have liver problems, it's important to be cautious when using products that contain acetaminophen. Taking more than 4,000 mg of acetaminophen in a 24-hour period, using it alongside other medications that also contain acetaminophen, or consuming three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product can lead to severe liver damage.

Before using this product, you should consult your doctor if you have liver disease. They can provide guidance on safe usage and any necessary adjustments to your dosage. Your health and safety are the top priority, so don’t hesitate to seek professional advice.

Drug Interactions

It's important to have open conversations with your healthcare provider about any medications or tests you may be taking. While there are no specific drug interactions or laboratory test interactions noted for this medication, your healthcare provider can help ensure that everything you are taking works well together and is safe for you.

Always feel free to ask questions and share your complete list of medications and any lab tests you may be undergoing. This way, you can receive the best possible care tailored to your needs.

Storage and Handling

To ensure the best performance of your product, store it at a temperature of 25°C (77°F). It can safely be kept within a range of 15°-30°C (59°-86°F) for short periods. Always check the expiration date on the package and use the product before this date to guarantee its effectiveness.

When handling the product, make sure to maintain a clean environment to avoid contamination. Following these guidelines will help you use the product safely and effectively.

Additional Information

You should take this medication orally. For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the recommended dose is 2 caplets every 6 hours, with a maximum of 6 caplets in a 24-hour period. If the patient is under 12 years old, consult a doctor for appropriate dosing.

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it's important to talk to a healthcare professional before using this medication. Always keep it out of reach of children. In case of an overdose, seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately, as prompt attention is crucial for both adults and children, even if no symptoms are present.

FAQ

What is Acetaminophen used for?

Acetaminophen is used to temporarily relieve minor aches and pains due to headaches and muscular aches.

What is the recommended dosage for adults and children over 12?

Adults and children 12 years and over should take 2 caplets every 6 hours, not exceeding 6 caplets in 24 hours.

What should I do if I experience a skin reaction?

If you experience symptoms like blisters, rash, or skin reddening, stop using the product and seek medical help immediately.

Are there any warnings associated with Acetaminophen?

Yes, it can cause severe liver damage if you take more than 4,000 mg in 24 hours, use it with other acetaminophen-containing drugs, or consume 3 or more alcoholic drinks daily while using it.

Can I take Acetaminophen if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should ask a health professional before using Acetaminophen.

What should I do in case of an overdose?

In case of overdose, seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately, as prompt medical attention is critical.

Is there a caffeine content in Acetaminophen?

Yes, this product contains 65 mg of caffeine, which is about the same as a cup of coffee.

What should I do if my pain lasts more than 10 days?

If your pain worsens or lasts more than 10 days, you should stop using the product and consult your doctor.

Who should I consult before using Acetaminophen?

You should consult a doctor if you have liver disease or are taking the blood-thinning drug warfarin.

Packaging Info

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Tension Headache (acetaminophen, caffeine). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Tension Headache.
Details

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Tension Headache, including active ingredients, dosage, warnings, and labeling as submitted by the manufacturer for OTC distribution.

View product document (PDF)

Description

No description information is available for the specified drug.

Uses and Indications

This drug is indicated for the temporary relief of minor aches and pains associated with headache and muscular aches.

There are no teratogenic or nonteratogenic effects associated with this drug.

Dosage and Administration

Healthcare professionals should advise patients to adhere strictly to the recommended dosage. For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the recommended dosage is 2 caplets every 6 hours, with a maximum limit of 6 caplets within a 24-hour period.

For children under 12 years of age, it is essential to consult a physician before administration.

Contraindications

Use of this product is contraindicated in patients who are concurrently taking any other medication that contains acetaminophen, whether prescription or nonprescription. The combination may lead to an increased risk of acetaminophen-related hepatotoxicity. If there is uncertainty regarding the acetaminophen content of a medication, consultation with a healthcare professional is advised.

Warnings and Precautions

Severe liver damage may occur with the use of this product, which contains acetaminophen. Healthcare professionals should advise patients to avoid exceeding 4,000 mg of acetaminophen within a 24-hour period, to refrain from using other medications that also contain acetaminophen, and to limit alcohol consumption to fewer than three drinks per day while using this product.

Acetaminophen may also lead to severe skin reactions. Symptoms such as blisters, rash, and skin reddening may occur. If any skin reaction is observed, patients should be instructed to discontinue use immediately and seek medical assistance.

Caution is advised regarding caffeine intake. The recommended dosage of this product contains approximately the same amount of caffeine as a standard cup of coffee. Patients should be counseled to limit the consumption of other caffeine-containing medications, foods, or beverages, as excessive caffeine intake may result in nervousness, irritability, sleeplessness, and, in some cases, rapid heartbeat.

Patients with liver disease should consult a healthcare provider prior to using this product. Additionally, those taking the anticoagulant warfarin should seek advice from a doctor or pharmacist before use.

In the event of an overdose, immediate medical attention is essential. Patients should be instructed to contact a Poison Control Center or seek emergency medical help without delay, as prompt intervention is critical for both adults and children, even in the absence of noticeable symptoms.

Patients should discontinue use and contact their healthcare provider if they experience any of the following: worsening pain that persists beyond 10 days, fever that worsens or lasts more than 3 days, the presence of redness or swelling, or the emergence of any new symptoms.

Side Effects

Patients using this product should be aware of several important warnings and potential adverse reactions.

Severe liver damage may occur if patients exceed a dosage of 4,000 mg of acetaminophen within a 24-hour period, use other medications containing acetaminophen concurrently, or consume three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product.

Additionally, there is an allergy alert associated with acetaminophen, as it may lead to severe skin reactions. Symptoms of such reactions can include blisters, rash, and skin reddening. If any skin reaction occurs, patients are advised to discontinue use immediately and seek medical assistance.

The product also contains caffeine, which is equivalent to the amount found in a standard cup of coffee. Patients should limit the intake of other caffeine-containing medications, foods, or beverages while using this product, as excessive caffeine consumption may result in nervousness, irritability, sleeplessness, and, in some cases, rapid heartbeat.

Patients are instructed to stop use and consult a doctor if pain worsens or persists for more than 10 days, if fever intensifies or lasts longer than 3 days, if redness or swelling occurs, or if any new symptoms appear.

Before using this product, patients should consult a doctor if they have liver disease or are taking the blood-thinning medication warfarin.

Drug Interactions

There are currently no documented drug interactions associated with this medication. Additionally, there is no information available regarding interactions with laboratory tests. As such, no specific recommendations for dosage adjustments or monitoring are warranted at this time.

Packaging & NDC

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Tension Headache (acetaminophen, caffeine). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Tension Headache.
Details

Pediatric Use

Pediatric patients under 12 years of age should consult a healthcare professional before use. For adolescents aged 12 years and older, the recommended dosage is 2 caplets every 6 hours, with a maximum of 6 caplets in a 24-hour period.

In the event of an overdose, it is essential to seek prompt medical attention for both adults and pediatric patients, even if no signs or symptoms are immediately apparent.

Geriatric Use

There is no specific information regarding the use of this medication in geriatric patients, including dosage adjustments, safety concerns, or special precautions. Healthcare providers should exercise caution when prescribing this medication to elderly patients, as they may have altered pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. Close monitoring is recommended to ensure safety and efficacy in this population.

Pregnancy

Pregnant patients and those who are breastfeeding should consult a healthcare professional prior to using this medication. The potential risks and benefits must be carefully weighed, as the effects on fetal outcomes and lactation are not fully established. It is essential for women of childbearing potential to seek medical advice to ensure the safety of both the mother and the developing fetus or nursing infant.

Lactation

Lactating mothers are advised to consult a health professional prior to using this medication. There is no specific data available regarding the excretion of this medication in breast milk or its effects on breastfed infants. Therefore, caution is recommended when administering this medication to lactating individuals.

Renal Impairment

Patients with renal impairment have not been specifically addressed in the drug insert regarding dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or safety considerations. Therefore, healthcare professionals should exercise caution when prescribing this medication to individuals with reduced kidney function, as the absence of detailed guidance necessitates careful clinical judgment. Regular monitoring of renal function may be advisable in these patients to ensure safety and efficacy.

Hepatic Impairment

Patients with hepatic impairment should exercise caution when using this product, as it contains acetaminophen, which is associated with the risk of severe liver damage. It is critical that patients do not exceed a maximum dosage of 4,000 mg of acetaminophen within a 24-hour period. Additionally, patients should avoid concurrent use with other medications that contain acetaminophen, as this may further increase the risk of liver injury.

Patients with compromised liver function are advised to consult a healthcare professional prior to using this product, particularly if they have a history of liver disease. Furthermore, consumption of three or more alcoholic drinks per day while using this product is contraindicated, as it may exacerbate the risk of liver damage. Regular monitoring of liver function may be warranted in patients with existing liver conditions to ensure safety and efficacy during treatment.

Overdosage

In the event of an overdose, it is imperative to seek immediate medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center without delay. Prompt medical intervention is crucial for both adults and children, even in the absence of noticeable signs or symptoms.

Healthcare professionals should be aware that the lack of immediate symptoms does not preclude the potential for serious health consequences. Therefore, it is essential to monitor the patient closely and provide appropriate care as needed.

Nonclinical Toxicology

No teratogenic or non-teratogenic effects have been reported in the available nonclinical studies. Additionally, there is no information regarding animal pharmacology and toxicology. The absence of data limits the assessment of potential risks associated with the compound in these areas.

Postmarketing Experience

No postmarketing experience details are available for SPL code 90375-7.

Patient Counseling

Healthcare providers should advise patients to seek immediate medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center in the event of an overdose, emphasizing that prompt medical attention is crucial for both adults and children, even if no signs or symptoms are initially apparent.

Patients should be informed not to use this medication in conjunction with any other drug that contains acetaminophen, whether prescription or nonprescription. If patients are uncertain about the presence of acetaminophen in their medications, they should be encouraged to consult with a doctor or pharmacist for clarification.

Healthcare providers should instruct patients to discontinue use and consult a doctor if their pain worsens or persists for more than 10 days. Similarly, patients should be advised to stop use and seek medical advice if their fever worsens or lasts longer than 3 days, if they notice any redness or swelling, or if any new symptoms arise.

It is important for healthcare providers to remind patients to consult a doctor before using this medication if they have a history of liver disease. Additionally, patients taking the blood-thinning medication warfarin should be advised to speak with a doctor or pharmacist prior to use to ensure safety and avoid potential interactions.

Storage and Handling

The product is supplied in packaging that includes specific NDC numbers. It should be stored at a controlled room temperature of 25°C (77°F), with permissible excursions between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). It is essential to adhere to the expiration date indicated on the package to ensure product efficacy and safety.

Additional Clinical Information

The medication is administered orally, with specific dosing guidelines for different age groups. Adults and children aged 12 years and older are instructed to take 2 caplets every 6 hours, not exceeding 6 caplets within a 24-hour period. For children under 12 years, it is recommended to consult a doctor for appropriate dosing.

Clinicians should counsel patients to seek advice from a health professional if they are pregnant or breastfeeding. Additionally, it is crucial to keep the medication out of reach of children. In the event of an overdose, immediate medical assistance should be sought, and contacting a Poison Control Center is advised, as prompt attention is essential for both adults and children, regardless of the presence of symptoms.

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Tension Headache, including active ingredients, dosage, warnings, and labeling as submitted by the manufacturer for OTC distribution.

View product document (PDF)

Data Generation & Sources

This page was automatically generated and is maintained by the AllDrugs AI Data-Science Team. It was built from the FDA Structured Product Label (DailyMed) for Tension Headache, retrieved by a validated AI data-extraction workflow.

All FDA-listed dosage forms and strengths are shown in the Packaging & NDC Codes section above. Regulatory status appears in the Summary Information panel above and was verified in the FDA National Drug Code directory and the NSDE NDC Directory daily file.

Note: an automated daemon monitors NSDE checksums; when the record for this NDC changes, the new file is pulled instantly and this page is refreshed.

No human clinician has reviewed this version.

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Primary FDA sources:

Orange Book data shown on this page are limited to Regulatory Status (Rx), Established Pharmacologic Class (EPC), and Mechanism of Action (MoA).

Regulatory data notice: Information on this page is reproduced verbatim from FDA public databases (NSDE, Orange Book, Purple Book, DailyMed SPL). NDA/ANDA drugs are FDA-approved, BLA biologics are FDA-licensed. Inclusion alone does not guarantee current market availability or imply FDA endorsement.

Medical disclaimer: This AI-generated content is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional for diagnosis or treatment decisions.