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Pain Relief

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Active ingredient
Acetaminophen 500 mg
Other brand names
Dosage form
Tablet, Coated
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2004
Label revision date
January 2, 2026
Active ingredient
Acetaminophen 500 mg
Other brand names
Dosage form
Tablet, Coated
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
CSA schedule
Not a scheduled drug
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2004
Label revision date
January 2, 2026
Manufacturer
CHAIN DRUG MARKETING ASSOCIATION INC
Registration number
M013
NDC root
63868-987

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Drug Overview

QC® (Quality Choice) is an extra strength, non-aspirin pain relief medication that contains 500 mg of acetaminophen. It is designed to temporarily relieve minor aches and pains associated with various conditions, including arthritis, headaches, muscular aches, toothaches, backaches, the common cold, and menstrual cramps. Additionally, it helps to temporarily reduce fever, making it a versatile option for managing discomfort.

This product is comparable to the active ingredient found in Extra Strength TYLENOL® Rapid Release Gels, providing effective relief in a convenient gelcap form. If you're looking for a reliable way to alleviate pain and reduce fever, QC® may be a suitable choice for you.

Uses

You can use this medication to temporarily relieve minor aches and pains caused by various conditions, including arthritis, headaches, muscular aches, toothaches, backaches, and even discomfort from the common cold. It can also help ease the pain associated with premenstrual and menstrual cramps. Additionally, this medication is effective in temporarily reducing fever.

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

Dosage and Administration

It's important to follow the dosage instructions carefully to ensure your safety and effectiveness of the medication. If you are an adult or a child aged 12 years and older, you should take 2 gelcaps every 6 hours as long as you have symptoms. However, make sure not to exceed 6 gelcaps 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 a healthcare professional.

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 the medication exactly as directed to avoid any potential risks.

What to Avoid

It's important to be cautious when using this medication. You should not use 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 clarification.

Additionally, avoid using this product if you have a known allergy to acetaminophen or any of its inactive ingredients. Taking these precautions can help ensure your safety and well-being while using this medication.

Side Effects

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 acetaminophen-containing medications, or consume three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using it. Additionally, be aware that acetaminophen may cause serious skin reactions, including redness, blisters, or rashes. If you notice any skin reactions, stop using the product and seek medical help immediately.

You should not use this product if you are allergic to acetaminophen or any of its inactive ingredients, or if you are taking other medications that contain acetaminophen. It's important to consult a doctor before using this product if you have liver disease or are taking the blood thinner warfarin. If your pain worsens or lasts more than 10 days, or if your fever persists for more than 3 days, stop using the product and contact a doctor, as these could indicate a more serious condition.

Warnings and Precautions

This product contains acetaminophen, which can lead to severe liver damage if you take more than 4,000 mg in a day, 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 skin reactions, 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, get emergency medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away, as prompt attention is crucial for both adults and children. You should also 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 notice any redness or swelling, as these may indicate a serious condition.

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. If you notice any of these symptoms, don’t wait—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 your child is under 12 years old, it's important to consult a doctor before using this medication. For those aged 12 and older, the recommended dosage is 2 gelcaps every 6 hours as needed for symptoms. However, you should not exceed 6 gelcaps in a 24-hour period unless a doctor advises otherwise. Additionally, do not use this medication for more than 10 days without a doctor's guidance. Always prioritize your child's safety by following these recommendations 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 considering this medication, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider. 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 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 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 with 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 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, it's important to store it properly. Keep it at a temperature of 25ºC (77ºF), but it's okay if the temperature occasionally ranges between 15°-30°C (59°-86°F). Make sure to avoid high humidity, as this can affect the product's quality.

Before using the product, check the end flap for the expiration date and lot number to ensure it is still safe and effective. Following these guidelines will help you handle the product safely and maintain its integrity.

Additional Information

You should take this medication orally. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional before using it. In the event of an overdose, seek medical help immediately or contact a Poison Control Center. Quick medical attention is crucial for both adults and children, even if there are no noticeable signs or symptoms.

FAQ

What is QC® (Quality Choice)?

QC® is an extra strength, non-aspirin pain relief medication that contains 500 mg of acetaminophen.

What conditions does QC® temporarily relieve?

QC® temporarily relieves minor aches and pains due to arthritis, headaches, muscular aches, toothaches, backaches, the common cold, and menstrual cramps.

How should adults and children 12 years and over take QC®?

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

What should I do if I experience a skin reaction while using QC®?

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

What are the liver warnings associated with QC®?

Severe liver damage may occur if you take more than 4,000 mg of acetaminophen in 24 hours, use other drugs containing acetaminophen, or consume 3 or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product.

Is QC® safe to use during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

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

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 prompt medical attention is critical.

What should I do if my symptoms do not improve?

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.

Can I take QC® with other medications?

Do not take QC® with any other drug containing acetaminophen unless directed by a doctor.

Where can I find more information about QC®?

For more information, you can visit www.qualitychoice.com or call 800-935-2362.

Packaging Info

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

Packaging configurations for Pain Relief.
Details

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Pain Relief, 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 drug.

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, headache, muscular aches, toothache, backache, the common cold, 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 older are instructed to take 2 gelcaps every 6 hours as needed while symptoms persist. The maximum dosage should not exceed 6 gelcaps 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 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.

Additionally, this product should not be used in individuals with a known allergy to acetaminophen or any of the inactive ingredients contained 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.

It is crucial to consult a healthcare provider prior to use in patients with liver disease. Additionally, patients taking the anticoagulant warfarin should seek advice from a doctor or pharmacist before using this product, as interactions may occur.

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

Patients should also be advised to discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional if any of the following occur: worsening pain lasting more than 10 days, fever that worsens or persists for 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

Patients using this product should be aware of potential adverse reactions associated with acetaminophen.

Severe liver damage is a significant concern, particularly if patients 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.

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

Patients should not use this product in conjunction with any other drug containing acetaminophen, whether prescription or nonprescription. It is crucial for patients to consult a healthcare professional if they are uncertain whether a drug contains acetaminophen. Furthermore, individuals with a known allergy to acetaminophen or any inactive ingredients in this product should avoid its use.

Before using this product, patients with liver disease should consult a doctor. Additionally, those taking the blood-thinning medication warfarin should seek advice from a healthcare professional prior to use.

Patients are advised to stop using the product and consult a doctor if pain worsens or persists for more than 10 days, if fever worsens or lasts more than 3 days, if new symptoms arise, or if redness or swelling is observed, as these may indicate a serious condition.

Drug Interactions

Acetaminophen may interact with the anticoagulant warfarin. Co-administration of these agents should be approached with caution. It is advisable for patients to consult a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or pharmacist, prior to using acetaminophen if they are currently taking warfarin. Monitoring of INR (International Normalized Ratio) levels may be warranted to ensure therapeutic efficacy and safety.

Packaging & NDC

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

Packaging configurations for Pain Relief.
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 gelcaps every 6 hours as needed for symptom relief, with a maximum of 6 gelcaps in a 24-hour period. Treatment should not exceed 10 days unless directed by a healthcare provider.

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 potential adverse effects or changes in efficacy, 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. 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. 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 for patients to adhere to the following guidelines to minimize the risk of hepatotoxicity:

  • Patients should not exceed a maximum dosage of 4,000 mg of acetaminophen within a 24-hour period.

  • Concurrent use of other medications containing acetaminophen should be avoided to prevent unintentional overdose.

  • Consumption of three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product is contraindicated, as it may significantly increase the risk of liver damage.

Additionally, patients with known liver disease are advised to consult a healthcare professional prior to using this product to ensure safe and appropriate use. Regular monitoring of liver function may be warranted in patients with compromised liver function to detect any potential adverse effects promptly.

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

If pregnant or breastfeeding, it is advised to consult a health professional prior to use. Acetaminophen has been associated with 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.

No relevant information regarding carcinogenicity, mutagenicity, or impairment of fertility has been provided in the insert. Additionally, there is no pertinent data available concerning animal pharmacology and toxicology.

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 seek immediate medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center in the event of an overdose, emphasizing that prompt medical attention is critical 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 the presence of acetaminophen in any other medications they are taking, they should be encouraged to consult with a doctor or pharmacist.

It is essential to instruct patients to discontinue use and consult a doctor if their pain worsens or persists for more than 10 days. Similarly, they should stop use and seek medical advice if their fever worsens or lasts longer than 3 days. Patients should also be advised to stop use and contact a healthcare professional if they experience new symptoms or 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 speak with a doctor or pharmacist prior to use to ensure safety and avoid potential interactions.

Storage and Handling

The product is supplied with specific labeling that includes the expiration date and lot number, which can be found on the end flap of the packaging. It is essential to store the product at a controlled room temperature of 25ºC (77ºF). Temporary excursions from this temperature are permissible, provided they remain within the range of 15°-30°C (59°-86°F). Additionally, it is crucial to avoid exposure to high humidity to maintain the integrity of the product.

Additional Clinical Information

The medication is administered orally. Clinicians should advise patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding to consult a healthcare professional prior to use. In the event of an overdose, it is crucial for patients to seek immediate medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center, as prompt intervention is essential for both adults and children, even in the absence of noticeable symptoms.

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Pain Relief, 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 Pain Relief, 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.

Learn more in our Editorial Policy

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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.