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Acetaminophen

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Active ingredient
Acetaminophen 500 mg
Other brand names
Dosage form
Tablet
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2018
Label revision date
September 23, 2025
Active ingredient
Acetaminophen 500 mg
Other brand names
Dosage form
Tablet
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
CSA schedule
Not a scheduled drug
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2018
Label revision date
September 23, 2025
Manufacturer
Cardinal Health 107, LLC
Registration number
M013
NDC root
55154-7897

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Drug Overview

Acetaminophen is a medication available in extra strength tablets, each containing 500 mg. It is commonly used to temporarily reduce fever and relieve minor aches and pains. You might take acetaminophen for various conditions, including headaches, muscular aches, backaches, minor arthritis pain, toothaches, and menstrual cramps, as well as discomfort associated with the common cold.

This medication works by affecting the way your body senses pain and regulates temperature, making it a popular choice for managing everyday discomfort.

Uses

You can use this medication to temporarily reduce fever and relieve minor aches and pains. It is effective for various discomforts, including headaches, muscular aches, backaches, and toothaches. Additionally, it can help with minor arthritis pain and the cramps associated with premenstrual and menstrual periods. If you're feeling under the weather with a common cold, this medication may also provide some relief.

Rest assured, there are no known teratogenic effects (which means it doesn't cause birth defects) associated with this medication.

Dosage and Administration

If you are an adult or a child aged 12 years and older, you should take 2 tablets every 6 hours as long as your symptoms persist. However, it's important not to exceed 6 tablets in a 24-hour period unless your doctor advises otherwise. Additionally, you should not use this medication for more than 10 days unless directed by your healthcare provider.

For children under 12 years of age, it's essential to consult a doctor before giving them this medication. Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions to ensure safe and effective use.

What to Avoid

It's important to be cautious when using this medication. You should not take it alongside any other drugs that contain acetaminophen, whether they are prescription or over-the-counter. If you're unsure whether a medication contains acetaminophen, please consult your doctor or pharmacist for guidance. Additionally, avoid using this product if you have a known allergy to acetaminophen or any of its inactive ingredients.

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure your safety and avoid potential adverse reactions. Always prioritize your health and seek professional advice if you have any questions or concerns.

Side Effects

Taking acetaminophen can lead to some serious side effects, so it's important to be aware of them. You should avoid exceeding 4,000 mg in a 24-hour period, taking it with other medications that contain acetaminophen, or consuming three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product, as these can increase the risk of severe liver damage. Additionally, be cautious of potential severe skin reactions, which may include symptoms like skin reddening, blisters, or rash. If you experience any of these, stop using the product and seek medical help immediately.

It's also crucial to consult a doctor if your pain worsens or lasts more than 10 days, if your fever persists for more than 3 days, or if you notice new symptoms, redness, or swelling, as these could indicate a serious condition. If you have liver disease or are taking the blood thinner warfarin, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before using acetaminophen. In case of an overdose, seek medical attention or contact a Poison Control Center right away, even if you don't notice any symptoms.

Warnings and Precautions

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

Before using this product, consult your doctor if you have liver disease or are taking the blood thinner warfarin. If you suspect an overdose, it’s crucial to get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) right away, even if you don’t notice any symptoms. You should also stop using the product and call your doctor if your pain worsens or lasts more than 10 days, your fever gets worse or lasts more than 3 days, you develop new symptoms, or notice any redness or swelling, as these could indicate a serious condition.

Overdose

If you suspect an overdose, it’s important to seek medical help immediately or contact a Poison Control Center. Quick medical attention 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. If you notice any of these symptoms, don’t hesitate to get help right away. Remember, acting quickly can make a significant difference in the outcome.

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. Always be cautious about dosage, as children can be more sensitive to medications than adults.

In case of an overdose, seek medical help immediately, even if your child shows no signs or symptoms. Additionally, make sure to keep this and all medications out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion. Your vigilance is key to ensuring their safety.

Geriatric Use

While there is no specific information available about the use of this medication in older adults, it’s important to approach any new treatment with caution. As you age, your body may process medications differently, which can affect how well they work and the potential for side effects.

If you or a loved one is considering this medication, it’s wise to discuss it with a healthcare provider. They can help determine if any special precautions or adjustments are needed based on individual health conditions and overall well-being. 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 you have renal impairment (kidney issues).

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

Hepatic Impairment

If you have liver disease, it’s important to consult your doctor before using this medication. Your healthcare provider can help determine if it’s safe for you and whether any adjustments to your dosage are necessary. Monitoring your liver function may also be required to ensure your safety while using this treatment. Always prioritize open communication with your healthcare team regarding your liver health.

Drug Interactions

It's important to talk to your doctor or pharmacist before using this medication, especially if you are taking warfarin, a blood-thinning drug. Acetaminophen can interact with warfarin, which may affect how well your blood is thinned.

Always keep your healthcare provider informed about all the medications you are taking to ensure your safety and the effectiveness of your treatments.

Storage and Handling

To ensure the best performance of your product, store it in a dry place where the temperature remains between 15° and 30°C (59° and 86°F). This temperature range helps maintain the integrity and effectiveness of the device.

When handling the product, make sure to keep it in a clean environment to avoid contamination. Always follow any specific instructions provided for use to ensure safety and effectiveness. If you have any questions about disposal or further handling, please refer to the guidelines provided with your product.

Additional Information

No further information is available.

FAQ

What is acetaminophen used for?

Acetaminophen is used to temporarily reduce fever and relieve minor aches and pains, including headaches, muscular aches, backaches, toothaches, and menstrual cramps.

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

Adults and children 12 years and over should take 2 tablets every 6 hours while symptoms last, not exceeding 6 tablets in 24 hours unless directed by a doctor.

What should I do if I have liver disease?

You should ask a doctor before using acetaminophen if you have liver disease.

Are there any contraindications for using acetaminophen?

Do not use acetaminophen with any other drug containing acetaminophen or if you are allergic to acetaminophen or any inactive ingredients in the product.

What are the signs of a severe allergic reaction to acetaminophen?

Severe skin reactions may occur, including symptoms like skin reddening, blisters, or rash. If these occur, stop use and seek medical help immediately.

What should I do in case of an overdose?

In case of overdose, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away, as quick medical attention is critical.

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 if my symptoms do not improve?

Stop use and ask a doctor if pain worsens or lasts more than 10 days, or if fever worsens or lasts more than 3 days.

How should I store acetaminophen?

Store acetaminophen in a dry place at temperatures between 15° – 30°C (59° – 86°F).

Packaging Info

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Acetaminophen. Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Acetaminophen.
Details

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Acetaminophen, 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 reduction of fever and the relief of minor aches and pains associated with various conditions. These conditions include headache, muscular aches, backache, minor pain of arthritis, the common cold, toothache, and premenstrual and menstrual cramps.

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

Dosage and Administration

Adults and children aged 12 years and older are instructed to take 2 tablets every 6 hours as needed while symptoms persist. The maximum dosage should not exceed 6 tablets within a 24-hour period, unless otherwise directed by a healthcare professional. Additionally, the duration of use should not exceed 10 days unless advised by a doctor.

For children under 12 years of age, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for appropriate dosing guidance.

Contraindications

Use of this product is contraindicated in the following situations:

  • Co-administration with any other drug containing acetaminophen, whether prescription or nonprescription, is prohibited. If there is uncertainty regarding the presence of acetaminophen in another medication, consultation with a healthcare professional is advised.

  • This product should not be used in individuals with a known allergy to acetaminophen or any of the inactive ingredients contained in the formulation.

Warnings and Precautions

Severe liver damage may occur with the use of this product, which contains acetaminophen. Healthcare professionals should advise patients that the risk of liver injury increases significantly if they exceed 4,000 mg of acetaminophen within a 24-hour period, use other medications containing acetaminophen concurrently, or consume three or more alcoholic beverages daily while taking this product.

Patients should be alerted to the potential for severe skin reactions associated with acetaminophen use. Symptoms may include skin reddening, blisters, or rash. In the event of any skin reaction, patients must discontinue use immediately and seek medical assistance.

It is essential for patients to consult a healthcare provider prior to using this product if they have a history of liver disease. Additionally, those taking the anticoagulant warfarin should seek advice from a doctor or pharmacist before use, as interactions may occur.

In cases of overdose, immediate medical attention is crucial. Patients should be instructed to contact a Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) or seek emergency medical help without delay, even if no symptoms are apparent, as prompt intervention is vital for both adults and children.

Patients should discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional if any of the following occur: worsening pain that persists beyond 10 days, fever that worsens or lasts more than 3 days, the emergence of new symptoms, or the presence of redness or swelling. These signs may indicate a serious underlying condition that requires further evaluation.

Side Effects

Severe liver damage may occur in patients who exceed 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.

Patients should be aware of the potential for severe skin reactions associated with acetaminophen, which may manifest as skin reddening, blisters, or rash. In the event of a skin reaction, it is imperative to discontinue use and seek medical assistance immediately.

Participants are advised to stop use and consult a healthcare professional if pain worsens or persists beyond 10 days, if fever intensifies or lasts more than 3 days, if new symptoms arise, or if redness or swelling is observed, as these may indicate a serious underlying condition.

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

In cases of overdose, it is crucial to obtain medical help or contact a Poison Control Center without delay. Prompt medical attention is essential for both adults and children, even if no signs or symptoms are immediately apparent.

Drug Interactions

Acetaminophen may interact with the anticoagulant warfarin. It is advisable for patients to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or pharmacist, prior to using acetaminophen if they are currently taking warfarin. This interaction may necessitate careful monitoring of INR levels and potential dosage adjustments of warfarin to maintain therapeutic efficacy and minimize the risk of bleeding complications.

Packaging & NDC

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Acetaminophen. Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Acetaminophen.
Details

Pediatric Use

Pediatric patients under 12 years of age should consult a healthcare professional before use. In the event of an overdose, prompt medical attention is essential for both children and adults, even if no signs or symptoms are immediately apparent. It is crucial to keep this medication and all other drugs out of the reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion.

Geriatric Use

There is no specific information available 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 individual responses may vary. Monitoring for potential adverse effects and therapeutic efficacy is recommended 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.

Lactation

Lactating mothers are advised to consult a health professional prior to using this medication. There is currently no available data on the excretion of this drug in human 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 no specific information regarding dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or safety considerations provided in the drug insert. Therefore, healthcare professionals should exercise caution when prescribing this medication to individuals with reduced kidney function, as the lack of data necessitates careful clinical judgment.

Hepatic Impairment

Patients with hepatic impairment should consult a healthcare professional prior to using this medication. It is essential for individuals with liver disease to receive appropriate guidance, as their liver function may affect the safety and efficacy of the treatment. Monitoring of liver function may be necessary to ensure the patient's safety while on therapy. Adjustments to dosage or treatment regimens may be required based on the severity of hepatic impairment, and healthcare providers should evaluate the risks and benefits of therapy in these patients.

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 observable signs or symptoms.

Healthcare professionals are advised to remain vigilant and proactive in managing potential overdose situations. The importance of rapid response cannot be overstated, as early intervention may significantly influence the outcome.

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 use of the compound in question. Further studies may be necessary to elucidate these aspects of nonclinical toxicology.

Postmarketing Experience

No postmarketing experience details are available in the insert text.

Patient Counseling

Healthcare providers should advise patients to keep this medication out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion. Patients should be informed not to use this product in conjunction with any other medications that contain acetaminophen, whether prescription or nonprescription. If patients are uncertain about the presence of acetaminophen in their other medications, they should be encouraged to consult with a doctor or pharmacist.

It is essential to inform patients that they should not use this product if they have a known allergy to acetaminophen or any of the inactive ingredients contained in the formulation. Patients should be instructed to discontinue use and seek medical advice if their pain worsens or persists for more than 10 days, or if their fever worsens or lasts longer than 3 days. Additionally, patients should be advised to stop using the medication and consult a doctor if they experience new symptoms, or if they notice any redness or swelling, as these may indicate a serious condition.

Patients with a history of liver disease should be encouraged to consult with their healthcare provider before using this medication. Furthermore, those who are taking the blood-thinning medication warfarin should be advised to seek guidance from a doctor or pharmacist prior to use.

Storage and Handling

The product is supplied in a configuration that includes specific NDC numbers, which are essential for identification and inventory management. It is crucial to store the product in a dry place, maintaining a temperature range of 15° to 30°C (59° to 86°F) to ensure its stability and efficacy. Proper storage conditions must be adhered to in order to preserve the integrity of the product.

Additional Clinical Information

No further data are available.

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Acetaminophen, 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 Acetaminophen, 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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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.