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Acetaminophen

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Active ingredient
Acetaminophen 650 mg
Other brand names
Dosage form
Tablet, Film Coated, Extended Release
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2002
Label revision date
December 27, 2024
Active ingredient
Acetaminophen 650 mg
Other brand names
Dosage form
Tablet, Film Coated, Extended Release
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
CSA schedule
Not a scheduled drug
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2002
Label revision date
December 27, 2024
Manufacturer
Chain Drug Marketing Association Inc.
Registration number
ANDA076200
NDC root
63868-089

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Drug Overview

QC® (Quality Choice) is an over-the-counter medication that contains acetaminophen (a common pain reliever) in an extended-release tablet form, providing 650 mg per tablet. It is designed to temporarily relieve minor aches and pains associated with conditions such as arthritis, muscular aches, backaches, menstrual cramps, headaches, toothaches, and the common cold. Additionally, it helps to reduce fever.

This pain reliever and fever reducer offers relief that can last up to 8 hours, making it a convenient option for managing discomfort throughout the day. However, it's important to use it only as directed and to avoid using it with other medications that contain acetaminophen to prevent potential overdose.

Uses

You can use this medication to temporarily relieve minor aches and pains caused by various conditions. This includes discomfort from arthritis, muscular aches, backaches, and cramps related to menstruation or premenstrual symptoms. It can also help with pain from the common cold, headaches, and toothaches.

In addition to pain relief, this medication can temporarily reduce fever, helping you feel more comfortable when you're not feeling well. Always consult with a healthcare professional if you have any questions about using this medication for your specific needs.

Dosage and Administration

When you need to take this medication, adults should take 2 caplets every 8 hours with a full glass of water. It's important to swallow the caplets whole, so avoid crushing, chewing, splitting, or dissolving them. Make sure not to exceed 6 caplets in a 24-hour period, and do not use this medication for more than 10 days unless your doctor advises you to do so.

If you are under 18 years of age, it's essential to consult with a doctor before using this medication. Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions to ensure safe and effective use.

What to Avoid

You should avoid using this medication if you are allergic to acetaminophen or any of its inactive ingredients. Additionally, do not take this medication alongside any other products that contain acetaminophen, whether they are prescription or over-the-counter. If you're unsure whether a medication contains acetaminophen, it's important to consult with your doctor or pharmacist for guidance.

Be mindful that mixing medications can lead to serious health risks, so always check labels and ask for help if needed. Your safety is the top priority, so please follow these instructions carefully.

Side Effects

Taking this medication can lead to some serious side effects, particularly concerning your liver. It's important to avoid exceeding six caplets in a 24-hour period, using it alongside other medications that contain acetaminophen, or consuming three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product, as these actions can significantly increase the risk of severe liver damage.

You should also be aware that acetaminophen can cause severe skin reactions, which may include symptoms like skin reddening, blisters, or rashes. If you experience any of these, stop using the medication and seek medical help immediately. Additionally, if you have liver disease or are taking blood thinners like warfarin, consult your doctor or pharmacist before using this product. If your pain worsens, lasts more than 10 days, or if you develop a fever that lasts more than 3 days, it's important to stop use and contact a healthcare professional, as these could indicate a more serious condition. In case of an overdose, seek medical assistance right away.

Warnings and Precautions

This product contains acetaminophen, which can lead to severe liver damage if you exceed 6 caplets in 24 hours, take it with other acetaminophen-containing medications, or consume 3 or more alcoholic drinks daily while using it. Be aware that acetaminophen may also cause serious skin reactions, such as skin reddening, blisters, or rash. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop using the product and seek medical help immediately.

Before using this medication, 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 emergency medical help or contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222, even if you don’t notice any symptoms. Additionally, stop using the product and call your doctor if your pain worsens or lasts more than 10 days, your fever worsens or lasts more than 3 days, you develop new symptoms, or if you notice redness or swelling, as these may indicate a serious condition.

Overdose

If you suspect an overdose, it’s important to seek medical help immediately. You can contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance. Quick action is crucial for both adults and children, even if you don’t see any signs or symptoms of an overdose.

Remember, being proactive can make a significant difference in ensuring safety and health. Always err on the side of caution and reach out for help if you have any concerns about an overdose.

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 your child is under 18 years old, it's important to consult with a doctor before using this medication. This ensures that the treatment is safe and appropriate for their specific age and health needs. Always prioritize your child's well-being by seeking professional guidance when it comes to their health care.

Geriatric Use

When it comes to using this medication in older adults, there are no specific guidelines or recommendations regarding age-related dosage adjustments or safety concerns. This means that while the medication can be prescribed to older patients, healthcare providers may not have tailored advice for managing its use in this age group.

If you or a loved one is an older adult considering this medication, it's important to discuss any potential risks or special precautions with your healthcare provider. They can help ensure that the treatment is safe and appropriate based on individual health needs.

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 should be used 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 you understand how to manage your treatment effectively while considering your kidney health.

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 is crucial to ensure your safety while taking this medication. Always prioritize open communication with your doctor 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. Combining these medications can increase the risk of bleeding, so your healthcare provider can help ensure your safety.

Additionally, avoid using this medication with any other products that contain acetaminophen, whether they are prescription or over-the-counter. Taking multiple medications with acetaminophen can lead to serious health issues. If you're unsure whether a medication contains acetaminophen, don't hesitate to ask your healthcare provider for guidance. Always prioritize open communication about your medications to help prevent potential interactions.

Storage and Handling

To ensure the best quality and safety of your product, store it at a temperature between 20 - 25° C (68 - 77° F). It's important to avoid exposing it to excessive heat, particularly temperatures above 40° C (104° F). Always check the end panel for the batch number and expiration date to confirm its validity.

When handling the product, be mindful of the tamper-evident seal. Do not use the product if the seal is broken or missing from the bottle, as this indicates that the product may not be safe for use. Following these guidelines will help you use the product safely and effectively.

Additional Information

You should take this medication orally, with adults advised to take 2 caplets every 8 hours using water. It's important to swallow the caplets whole—do not crush, chew, split, or dissolve them. Make sure not to exceed 6 caplets in a 24-hour period and avoid using it for more than 10 days unless your doctor instructs you otherwise.

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult a healthcare professional before using this medication. Keep it out of reach of children, and in case of an overdose, seek medical help immediately or contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.

FAQ

What is QC®?

QC® (Quality Choice) is an acetaminophen extended-release tablet that contains 650 mg of acetaminophen.

What does QC® relieve?

QC® temporarily relieves minor aches and pains due to conditions like arthritis, muscular aches, backache, menstrual cramps, the common cold, headache, and toothache.

How should adults take QC®?

Adults should take 2 caplets every 8 hours with water, swallowing them whole without crushing, chewing, splitting, or dissolving. Do not exceed 6 caplets in 24 hours.

Can I use QC® if I am under 18?

If you are under 18 years of age, you should ask a doctor before using QC®.

What should I avoid while taking QC®?

Do not use QC® with any other medications containing acetaminophen, and avoid taking it if you are allergic to acetaminophen or any inactive ingredients in the product.

What are the warnings associated with QC®?

Severe liver damage may occur if you take more than 6 caplets in 24 hours, use it with other acetaminophen-containing drugs, or consume 3 or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product.

What should I do in case of overdose?

In case of overdose, seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I do if my symptoms worsen?

Stop using QC® and consult a doctor if your pain worsens or lasts more than 10 days, or if your fever lasts more than 3 days.

Is QC® safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult a health professional before using QC®.

How should I store QC®?

Store QC® at 20 - 25° C (68 - 77° F) and avoid excessive heat above 40° C (104° 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

Acetaminophen Extended-release Tablets USP contain 650 mg of acetaminophen per tablet. These tablets are formulated as a pain reliever and fever reducer. The product is supplied in a package containing 100 capsule-shaped tablets.

Uses and Indications

This drug is indicated for the temporary relief of minor aches and pains associated with various conditions, including minor pain of arthritis, muscular aches, backache, premenstrual and menstrual cramps, the common cold, headache, and toothache. Additionally, it is indicated for the temporary reduction of fever.

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

Dosage and Administration

Adults are instructed to take 2 caplets every 8 hours with water. The caplets should be swallowed whole and must not be crushed, chewed, split, or dissolved. The maximum dosage should not exceed 6 caplets within a 24-hour period. Additionally, the use of this medication should not extend beyond 10 days unless directed by a healthcare professional.

For individuals under 18 years of age, it is recommended to consult a doctor prior to use.

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 other medications, 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

This product contains acetaminophen, which poses a risk of severe liver damage if the following conditions are met: exceeding 6 caplets within a 24-hour period, using other medications that also contain acetaminophen, or consuming 3 or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product.

Allergy Alert Acetaminophen may lead to severe skin reactions. Symptoms indicative of such reactions include skin reddening, blisters, and rash. Should any of these symptoms occur, it is imperative to discontinue use immediately and seek medical assistance.

General Precautions Healthcare professionals should advise patients to consult a doctor prior to use if they have a history of liver disease. Additionally, patients taking the anticoagulant warfarin should seek guidance from a doctor or pharmacist before using this product.

Emergency Medical Help In the event of an overdose, it is crucial to obtain medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately at 1-800-222-1222. Prompt medical attention is essential for both adults and children, even in the absence of noticeable signs or symptoms.

Discontinuation and Consultation Patients should stop using this product and consult a doctor if any of the following occur: pain worsens or persists beyond 10 days, fever intensifies or lasts more than 3 days, new symptoms arise, or if redness or swelling is observed. These may indicate a serious underlying condition that requires medical evaluation.

Side Effects

Severe liver damage may occur in patients who exceed the maximum daily dosage of 6 caplets within a 24-hour period, take the product in conjunction with other medications containing acetaminophen, or consume three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product.

Patients should be aware that acetaminophen can lead to severe skin reactions, 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.

This product should not be used in conjunction with any other drug containing acetaminophen, whether prescription or nonprescription. Patients who are unsure if a drug contains acetaminophen are advised to consult a healthcare professional. Additionally, individuals with a known allergy to acetaminophen or any inactive ingredients in this product should refrain from use.

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

Patients are advised to discontinue use and consult a doctor if pain worsens or persists for more than 10 days, if fever intensifies or lasts more than 3 days, if new symptoms arise, or if redness or swelling occurs, as these may indicate a serious condition.

In cases of overdose, it is crucial to seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately at 1-800-222-1222. Prompt medical attention is essential for both adults and children, even if no signs or symptoms are apparent.

Drug Interactions

Patients should consult a healthcare professional prior to using this medication if they are concurrently taking warfarin, a blood-thinning agent. The combination may increase the risk of bleeding due to potential pharmacodynamic interactions.

Additionally, this medication should not be used in conjunction with any other products containing acetaminophen, whether prescription or over-the-counter. Co-administration may lead to an increased risk of acetaminophen-related hepatotoxicity. If there is uncertainty regarding the presence of acetaminophen in other medications, patients are advised to seek guidance from a healthcare provider.

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 18 years of age should consult a healthcare professional prior to use. It is important to assess the appropriateness of treatment and dosage for this population, as specific recommendations may vary based on individual health needs and conditions.

Geriatric Use

Elderly patients may not have specific recommendations regarding age considerations, dosage adjustments, safety concerns, or special precautions associated with the use of this medication. Therefore, healthcare providers should exercise caution when prescribing this medication to geriatric patients.

It is advisable to monitor these patients closely for any potential adverse effects or changes in therapeutic response, given the general variability in drug metabolism and sensitivity in this population. Individualized assessment and clinical judgment are essential when determining the appropriateness of this medication for elderly patients.

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 considered in these populations to ensure the safety of both the mother and the fetus or infant.

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.

Overdosage

In the event of an overdose, it is imperative to seek immediate medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222. 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, vigilance and timely action are essential in managing overdose situations effectively.

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 these contexts.

Postmarketing Experience

Postmarketing experience has identified that acetaminophen may be associated with severe skin reactions. Reports indicate that symptoms can include skin reddening, blisters, and rash. In the event of a skin reaction, it is advised to discontinue use immediately and seek medical assistance.

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 whether a drug contains acetaminophen, they should be encouraged to consult with a doctor or pharmacist.

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

Additionally, patients should be advised to consult a doctor before using this medication if they have liver disease. Those taking the blood-thinning medication warfarin should also be encouraged 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 a container that is tamper evident; it should not be used if the imprinted seal is broken or missing. The storage conditions require the product to be maintained at a temperature range of 20 to 25° C (68 to 77° F). It is essential to avoid exposure to excessive heat, specifically temperatures exceeding 40° C (104° F). For batch number and expiration date, please refer to the end panel of the packaging.

Additional Clinical Information

The medication is administered orally, with adults advised to take 2 caplets every 8 hours with water. Patients should swallow the caplets whole and must not crush, chew, split, or dissolve them. The maximum dosage is 6 caplets within a 24-hour period, and use should not exceed 10 days unless directed by a healthcare professional.

Clinicians should counsel patients to consult a health professional if they are pregnant or breastfeeding. It is important to keep the medication out of reach of children. In the event of an overdose, patients should seek medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center immediately at 1-800-222-1222. No additional information is available regarding laboratory tests, abuse potential, or postmarketing experience.

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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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.