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Pain Reliever

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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 1993
Label revision date
December 11, 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 1993
Label revision date
December 11, 2025
Manufacturer
Walgreen Company
Registration number
M013
NDC root
0363-1750

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Drug Overview

Acetaminophen is a medication commonly used as a pain reliever and fever reducer. It is effective in temporarily relieving minor aches and pains, such as headaches, muscular aches, backaches, and minor arthritis pain. Additionally, acetaminophen helps to lower fever, making it a versatile option for managing discomfort and illness.

This medication is similar to the active ingredient found in Panadol Extra Strength Caplets, providing a familiar choice for those seeking relief from everyday aches and fever.

Uses

You can use this medication to temporarily relieve minor aches and pains caused by headaches, muscular aches, backaches, and minor arthritis pain. It is also effective in temporarily reducing fever.

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

Dosage and Administration

When using this medication, it’s important to follow the instructions carefully. For adults and children aged 12 years and older, you should take 2 caplets every 6 hours as long as your symptoms continue, or as your doctor advises. However, make sure not to exceed 6 caplets in a 24-hour period unless your doctor tells you otherwise. Additionally, you should not use this medication for more than 10 days unless directed by a healthcare professional.

If you have children under 12 years old, it’s best to consult a doctor before giving them this medication. Always remember to take only the recommended amount to ensure your safety and well-being.

What to Avoid

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

Additionally, be aware that this medication is classified as a controlled substance, which means it has the potential for abuse or misuse. This can lead to dependence (a condition where your body becomes reliant on a substance). Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions and avoid using this medication in ways not prescribed.

Side Effects

Taking this medication can lead to some serious side effects, particularly concerning your liver. It's important to avoid exceeding 4,000 mg of acetaminophen in a 24-hour period, using it alongside other acetaminophen-containing products, or consuming three or more alcoholic drinks daily while on this medication, as these actions can result in severe liver damage.

You should also be aware of potential allergic reactions, which may include severe skin issues like reddening, blisters, or rashes. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop using the medication and seek medical help immediately. Additionally, consult your doctor if your pain worsens or lasts more than 10 days, if your fever persists beyond 3 days, or if you notice any new symptoms. If you have liver disease or are taking the blood thinner warfarin, it's essential to talk to your doctor or pharmacist before using this medication.

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 skin reddening, blisters, or rash. 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, get emergency medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away, as prompt attention is crucial for both adults and children. 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 notice redness or swelling, or if any new symptoms appear.

Overdose

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

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

Pregnancy Use

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

Lactation Use

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

Pediatric Use

If you are considering this medication for your child, it's important to know that children under 12 years old should consult a doctor before use. For those aged 12 and older, the recommended dosage is 2 caplets every 6 hours as needed, but be sure not to exceed 6 caplets in a 24-hour period unless directed by a healthcare professional. Additionally, this medication should not be taken for more than 10 days unless advised by a doctor.

Always prioritize your child's safety by following these guidelines and seeking medical advice when necessary.

Geriatric Use

If you are an older adult or caring for one, it's important to be cautious when using this medication. Before starting, consult your doctor if you have liver disease, as this can affect how your body processes the medication. Additionally, if you are taking warfarin, a common blood thinner, check with your doctor or pharmacist to avoid any potential interactions.

For adults and children aged 12 and over, the recommended dosage is 2 caplets every 6 hours while symptoms last, but do not exceed 6 caplets in a 24-hour period unless directed by a doctor. It's also important not to use this medication for more than 10 days without medical advice. For children under 12, always consult a doctor before use.

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 may need to adjust your dosage or monitor your liver function closely. Always prioritize your health by discussing any liver conditions with your doctor before starting new treatments.

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, which can be serious. Always keep your healthcare provider informed about all the medications you are taking to ensure your safety and the effectiveness of your treatment.

Storage and Handling

To ensure the best performance of your product, store it at room temperature, specifically at 25ºC (77ºF). It’s acceptable for the temperature to vary between 15°-30°C (59°-86°F) occasionally, but try to keep it as close to the recommended temperature as possible.

Always check the end flap of the packaging for the expiration date and lot number, as this information is important for safety and effectiveness. Proper storage and handling will help maintain the quality of the product you are using.

Additional Information

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

FAQ

What is acetaminophen used for?

Acetaminophen is a pain reliever and fever reducer that temporarily relieves minor aches and pains due to headaches, muscular aches, backaches, and minor arthritis pain.

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

You should take 2 caplets every 6 hours while symptoms persist, but do not take more than 6 caplets in 24 hours unless directed by a doctor.

Are there any liver warnings associated with acetaminophen?

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

What should I do if I experience a skin reaction?

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

Can I take acetaminophen if I have liver disease?

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

Is it safe to use acetaminophen during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

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

What should I do in case of an overdose?

In case of overdose, 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 acetaminophen and ask a doctor if your pain worsens or lasts more than 10 days, or if your fever worsens or lasts more than 3 days.

Packaging Info

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

Packaging configurations for Pain Reliever.
Details

Drug Information (PDF)

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

View product document (PDF)

Description

No description information is available for the specified drug.

Uses and Indications

This drug is indicated for the temporary relief of minor aches and pains associated with headache, muscular aches, backache, and minor pain of arthritis. 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 instructed to take 2 caplets every 6 hours while symptoms persist, or as directed by a healthcare professional. The maximum dosage should not exceed 6 caplets within a 24-hour period, unless otherwise directed by a physician. Additionally, this medication should not be taken for more than 10 consecutive days unless specifically advised by a healthcare provider.

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

Contraindications

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

Warnings and Precautions

Severe liver damage may occur with the use of this product, which contains acetaminophen. Healthcare professionals should advise patients 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.

Acetaminophen may also lead to severe skin reactions, which can manifest as skin reddening, blisters, or rash. In the event of any skin reaction, patients must be instructed to 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, patients taking the anticoagulant warfarin should seek advice from a doctor or pharmacist before use, as potential interactions may occur.

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

Patients should also be instructed to stop taking the product and consult a healthcare professional if any of the following occur: worsening pain that persists beyond 10 days, a fever that worsens or lasts more than 3 days, the presence of redness or swelling, or the emergence of any new symptoms.

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.

Patients 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 redness or swelling occurs, or if any new symptoms develop.

Prior to using this product, patients with liver disease should consult a healthcare provider. Additionally, individuals taking the blood-thinning medication warfarin should seek advice from a doctor or pharmacist before use.

Drug Interactions

Patients taking warfarin, a blood-thinning medication, should consult with a healthcare professional prior to using this drug. The interaction between this medication and warfarin may necessitate careful monitoring of coagulation parameters to ensure therapeutic efficacy and minimize the risk of adverse effects. Adjustments to the dosage of either medication may be required based on clinical judgment and patient response.

Packaging & NDC

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

Packaging configurations for Pain Reliever.
Details

Pediatric Use

Pediatric patients under 12 years of age should consult a healthcare professional before use. For adolescents aged 12 years and older, the recommended dosage is 2 caplets every 6 hours as needed for symptom relief, or as directed by a healthcare provider. It is important to note that no more than 6 caplets should be taken within a 24-hour period, unless otherwise directed by a doctor. Additionally, the medication should not be used for more than 10 consecutive days without medical advice.

Geriatric Use

Elderly patients should consult a healthcare provider prior to use if they have liver disease, as this may affect the safety and efficacy of the medication. Additionally, it is important for geriatric patients to seek advice from a doctor or pharmacist if they are concurrently taking the anticoagulant warfarin, due to potential interactions that could increase the risk of bleeding.

For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the recommended dosage is 2 caplets every 6 hours while symptoms persist, with a maximum of 6 caplets in a 24-hour period unless otherwise directed by a healthcare professional. Geriatric patients should not exceed this dosage or use the medication for more than 10 days without consulting a doctor, as prolonged use may necessitate closer monitoring for adverse effects.

For children under 12 years of age, it is advised to consult a healthcare provider before administration. This precaution is particularly relevant in the geriatric population, where age-related physiological changes may influence drug metabolism and response.

Pregnancy

Pregnant patients and those who are breastfeeding should consult a healthcare professional prior to using this medication. It is important to assess the potential risks and benefits, as well as any available data regarding fetal outcomes and lactation. Healthcare providers can offer guidance tailored to individual circumstances, ensuring the safety of both the patient and the developing fetus or nursing infant.

Lactation

Lactating mothers are advised to consult a health professional prior to using this medication. There is currently no available data regarding the excretion of this medication 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 regarding the use of this product, as compromised liver function may affect the metabolism and clearance of the medication. Monitoring of liver function may be necessary to ensure safety and efficacy in this population.

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 are advised to remain vigilant and proactive in managing potential overdose situations. Early recognition and treatment can significantly mitigate the risks associated with overdose. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that patients and caregivers are informed about the importance of timely medical help in such scenarios.

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

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

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

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

Storage and Handling

The product is supplied in configurations that include specific NDC numbers, which can be found on the packaging. It should be stored at a controlled room temperature of 25ºC (77ºF), with permissible excursions between 15°-30°C (59°-86°F).

Healthcare professionals are advised to check the end flap of the packaging for the expiration date and lot number to ensure proper inventory management and product safety.

Additional Clinical Information

The medication is administered orally. Clinicians should advise patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding to consult a health professional prior to use. It is crucial 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, as prompt medical attention is essential for both adults and children, even if no signs or symptoms are apparent.

Drug Information (PDF)

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