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Acetaminophen

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Active ingredient
Acetaminophen 500 mg
Other brand names
Dosage form
Tablet, Film Coated
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2025
Label revision date
April 4, 2025
Active ingredient
Acetaminophen 500 mg
Other brand names
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 2025
Label revision date
April 4, 2025
Manufacturer
CVS Pharmacy, Inc.
Registration number
M013
NDC root
51316-342

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Drug Overview

Acetaminophen is a medication commonly used to temporarily relieve minor aches and pains, such as those caused by the common cold, headaches, backaches, toothaches, and muscular aches. It is also effective for alleviating minor pain associated with arthritis and menstrual cramps. In addition to pain relief, acetaminophen can temporarily reduce fever, making it a versatile option for managing discomfort and illness.

Uses

You can use this medication to temporarily relieve minor aches and pains caused by various conditions, including the common cold, headaches, backaches, arthritis, toothaches, muscular aches, and menstrual cramps. It can also help reduce fever, providing you with some comfort when you're not feeling well.

This medication is designed to address these common discomforts, making it a helpful option for managing everyday pain and fever.

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 doctor.

For children under 12 years of age, it's best 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 if you are allergic to acetaminophen or any of the inactive ingredients in the product. Additionally, avoid using it alongside any other medications that contain acetaminophen, whether they are prescription or over-the-counter. If you're unsure whether a medication contains acetaminophen, please consult with your doctor or pharmacist for guidance. Taking these precautions will help ensure your safety while using this product.

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 skin reddening, blisters, or rash. If you notice any of these symptoms, stop using the product and seek medical help immediately.

You should also consult a doctor if your pain worsens or lasts more than 10 days, if your fever increases or lasts more than 3 days, or if you experience new symptoms, redness, or swelling, as these could indicate a serious condition. If you have liver disease or are taking the blood thinner warfarin, it's important to talk to your doctor or pharmacist before using this product.

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. Be aware that acetaminophen may also cause serious skin reactions, such as redness, blisters, or rashes. If you experience any skin reactions, stop using the product and seek medical help immediately.

If you suspect an overdose, it’s crucial to get emergency medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222, even if you don’t notice any symptoms. Additionally, stop taking this 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 develop new symptoms, or if you notice redness or swelling, as these could indicate a serious condition. Always consult your doctor before using this product if you have liver disease or are taking the blood thinner warfarin.

Overdose

Taking too much acetaminophen can lead to serious liver damage. You should be cautious not to exceed 4,000 mg of acetaminophen in a 24-hour period. Additionally, combining acetaminophen with other medications that also contain acetaminophen can increase your risk of liver damage. If you regularly consume three or more alcoholic drinks each day, using acetaminophen can further heighten this risk.

If you suspect an overdose, look for signs such as nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, confusion, or jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes). It’s crucial to seek immediate medical help if you experience any of these symptoms or if you believe you have taken too much acetaminophen. Always prioritize your health and safety by consulting a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.

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 are considering this medication for your child, it's important to consult a doctor first if your child is under 12 years old. For children aged 12 and older, the recommended dosage is 2 tablets every 6 hours as needed, but they should not exceed 6 tablets in a 24-hour period unless directed by a doctor. Additionally, it's advised not to use this medication for more than 10 days without a doctor's guidance.

Be aware that in case of an overdose, seeking quick medical attention is crucial for both adults and children, even if there are no immediate signs or symptoms. Always prioritize safety and follow the recommended guidelines.

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. Since older adults may have different health needs and responses to medications, you should always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new medication. They can help determine the right dosage and monitor for any potential side effects, ensuring that the treatment is safe and effective for you or your loved one.

Renal Impairment

If you have kidney problems, it's important to know that there are no specific guidelines or dosage adjustments mentioned for your condition in the available information. This means that the standard recommendations for the medication do not include special monitoring or safety considerations tailored for patients with renal impairment (kidney issues).

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to ensure that your treatment plan is safe and effective for your specific health needs.

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 can lead to severe liver damage. Additionally, you should avoid using other medications that also contain acetaminophen while taking this product, as this can increase your risk of harm.

If you consume three or more alcoholic drinks each day, you should be especially careful, as this can further increase the risk of liver damage when using acetaminophen. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to ensure your safety while using any medication.

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, you should avoid using this medication with any other products that contain acetaminophen, whether they are prescription or over-the-counter. If you're unsure whether a medication contains acetaminophen, don't hesitate to ask your doctor or pharmacist for clarification. Always prioritize open communication with your healthcare team to manage your medications safely.

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 do so in a clean environment to maintain its integrity. Following these guidelines will help you use the product safely and effectively.

Additional Information

No further information is available.

FAQ

What is Acetaminophen used for?

Acetaminophen is used to temporarily relieve minor aches and pains due to conditions like the common cold, headache, backache, toothache, muscular aches, and menstrual cramps. It also temporarily reduces fever.

What should adults and children 12 years and over know about taking Acetaminophen?

Adults and children 12 years and over should take 2 tablets every 6 hours while symptoms last, not exceeding 6 tablets in 24 hours, and should not use it for more than 10 days unless directed by a doctor.

What precautions should I take if I have liver disease?

If you have liver disease, you should ask a doctor before using Acetaminophen, as it can cause severe liver damage if taken improperly.

What should I do if I experience a skin reaction while taking Acetaminophen?

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

Can I take Acetaminophen with other medications?

Do not use Acetaminophen with any other drug containing acetaminophen, and consult a doctor or pharmacist if unsure about other medications.

What should I do in case of an overdose?

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

Is Acetaminophen safe to use during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

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

What are the signs that I should stop using Acetaminophen?

You should stop using Acetaminophen and consult a doctor if your pain worsens or lasts more than 10 days, if your fever worsens or lasts more than 3 days, or if new symptoms occur.

Packaging Info

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Acetaminophen (acetaminophen 500mg). 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

342R-CVS Acetaminophen is formulated as a 500 mg tablet. The product is presented in a red color and is intended for oral administration. The labeling for this product is identified as 342R_300ct_LBL. Accompanying media includes images in JPEG format, specifically 342R-CVS Acetaminophen 500mg Red.jpg and 342R_300ct_LBL.jpg, which provide visual representation of the product and its labeling.

Uses and Indications

This drug is indicated for the temporary relief of minor aches and pains associated with various conditions, including the common cold, headache, backache, minor pain of arthritis, toothache, muscular aches, and premenstrual and menstrual cramps. 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 and children aged 12 years and over are advised to take 2 tablets every 6 hours as needed for symptom relief. The maximum dosage should not exceed 6 tablets within a 24-hour period, unless otherwise directed by a healthcare professional. Additionally, the use of this medication should not extend beyond 10 days unless specifically instructed 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, due to the risk of acetaminophen overdose. If there is uncertainty regarding the presence of acetaminophen in other medications, consultation with a healthcare professional is advised.

  • In individuals with a known allergy to acetaminophen or any of the inactive ingredients in this formulation, as this may lead to severe allergic reactions.

Warnings and Precautions

This product contains acetaminophen, which carries significant risks for liver damage. Healthcare professionals should advise patients that severe liver injury may occur 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 informed of the potential for severe skin reactions associated with acetaminophen. Symptoms may include skin reddening, blisters, and rash. In the event of any skin reaction, patients must discontinue use immediately and seek medical assistance.

In cases of suspected overdose, it is imperative to obtain emergency medical help or contact a Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) without delay. Prompt medical attention is crucial for both adults and children, even if no signs or symptoms are initially apparent.

Patients should be instructed to stop taking the product and consult a healthcare provider if any of the following occur: pain worsens or persists for more than 10 days, fever intensifies or lasts longer than 3 days, new symptoms arise, or if redness or swelling is observed. These may indicate a serious underlying condition that requires further evaluation.

General precautions should be taken for patients with liver disease; they should consult a healthcare professional before using this product. Additionally, patients taking the anticoagulant warfarin should seek advice from a doctor or pharmacist prior to use, as interactions may necessitate monitoring or dosage adjustments.

Side Effects

Patients using this product should be aware of the potential for serious adverse reactions, particularly related to liver health and allergic responses. The product contains acetaminophen, which can lead to severe liver damage if the following conditions are met: exceeding 4,000 mg of acetaminophen within a 24-hour period, concurrent use with other medications containing acetaminophen, or consumption of three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product.

In addition to liver-related warnings, there is an allergy alert associated with acetaminophen. Patients may experience severe skin reactions, which can manifest as skin reddening, blisters, or rash. Should any of these symptoms occur, it is imperative to discontinue use immediately and seek medical assistance.

Patients are advised to stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional if they experience worsening pain that lasts more than 10 days, a fever that persists or worsens beyond three days, the emergence of new symptoms, or the presence of redness or swelling. These symptoms may indicate a serious underlying condition.

Furthermore, individuals with liver disease should consult a doctor prior to using this product. It is also recommended that patients taking the blood-thinning medication warfarin seek advice from a doctor or pharmacist before use.

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 (acetaminophen 500mg). 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. For adolescents aged 12 years and older, the recommended dosage is 2 tablets every 6 hours as needed, with a maximum of 6 tablets in a 24-hour period, unless otherwise directed by a physician. Treatment should not exceed 10 days without medical advice.

In cases of overdose, prompt medical attention is essential for both pediatric and adult patients, even if no signs or symptoms are immediately apparent.

Geriatric Use

Elderly patients may not have specific information regarding the use of this medication, including dosage adjustments, safety concerns, or special precautions. Therefore, healthcare providers should exercise caution when prescribing this medication to geriatric patients. It is advisable to monitor these patients closely for any adverse effects or changes in therapeutic response, given the lack of targeted data for this population.

Pregnancy

Pregnant patients and those who are breastfeeding should consult a healthcare professional prior to using this medication. It is essential to evaluate the potential risks and benefits associated with the use of this drug during pregnancy and lactation. Healthcare providers should consider the available data and individual patient circumstances when advising on the use of this medication in these populations.

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

There is no specific information available regarding dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or safety considerations for patients with renal impairment. Healthcare professionals should exercise caution when prescribing to patients 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 be closely monitored when using this product, which contains acetaminophen. It is important to note that severe liver damage may occur if patients exceed the recommended dosage of 4,000 mg of acetaminophen in a 24-hour period. Additionally, patients should avoid the concurrent use of other medications containing acetaminophen, as this can further increase the risk of liver injury.

Patients with compromised liver function are also advised to limit alcohol consumption. Specifically, the intake of three or more alcoholic drinks per day while using this product may significantly heighten the risk of liver damage. Therefore, careful consideration of liver function and adherence to recommended dosing guidelines is essential to minimize the potential for adverse effects in this population. Regular monitoring of liver function tests may be warranted in patients with existing hepatic impairment to ensure safety and efficacy during treatment.

Overdosage

In cases of overdosage, significant health risks are associated with the consumption of acetaminophen.

Risk of Severe Liver Damage Healthcare professionals should be aware that severe liver damage may occur if an individual ingests more than 4,000 mg of acetaminophen within a 24-hour period. Additionally, the risk of liver damage is heightened when acetaminophen is taken concurrently with other medications that also contain acetaminophen.

Furthermore, chronic alcohol consumption can exacerbate the risk of liver injury. Specifically, individuals who consume three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using acetaminophen are at an increased risk for severe liver damage.

Recommended Actions In the event of suspected overdosage, it is imperative to seek immediate medical attention. Healthcare providers should assess the patient's condition and consider the need for liver function tests and other relevant diagnostic evaluations. Prompt intervention is crucial to mitigate the potential for serious hepatic injury.

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

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. In the event of an overdose, it is crucial to seek medical help immediately or contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222, as prompt medical attention is essential for both adults and children, even if no signs or symptoms are 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 whether a drug contains acetaminophen, they should be encouraged to consult with a doctor or pharmacist.

It is important to instruct patients to discontinue use and consult a doctor if their pain worsens or persists for more than 10 days, if their fever intensifies or lasts longer than 3 days, if new symptoms arise, or if they notice any redness or swelling, as these may indicate a serious condition.

Patients with a history of liver disease should be advised to consult a doctor before using this medication. Additionally, those taking the blood-thinning medication warfarin should be encouraged to seek guidance from a doctor or pharmacist prior to use. Lastly, patients should be reminded to avoid this medication if they are allergic to acetaminophen or any of the inactive ingredients present in the product.

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). Temporary excursions are permitted within the range of 15° to 30°C (59° 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

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.