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Acetaminophen

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Active ingredient
Acetaminophen 500 mg
Other brand names
Dosage form
Tablet
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2020
Label revision date
October 9, 2025
Active ingredient
Acetaminophen 500 mg
Other brand names
Dosage form
Tablet
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
CSA schedule
Not a scheduled drug
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2020
Label revision date
October 9, 2025
Manufacturer
Rite Aid Corporation
Registration number
M013
NDC root
11822-4484

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Drug Overview

Acetaminophen is a pain reliever and fever reducer commonly used to temporarily relieve minor aches and pains, such as those caused by the common cold, headaches, backaches, toothaches, muscular aches, and menstrual cramps. It is also effective in reducing fever. This medication is available in 500 mg caplets and is designed for adult use, providing extra strength relief without gluten or caffeine.

When you take acetaminophen, it works by blocking certain chemicals in the brain that signal pain and fever, helping you feel more comfortable during times of discomfort.

Uses

You can use this medication to temporarily relieve minor aches and pains caused by various conditions, including the common cold, headaches, backaches, and toothaches. It is also effective for easing muscular aches, minor arthritis pain, and menstrual cramps. Additionally, this medication can help reduce fever for a short period.

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

Dosage and Administration

If you are an adult or a child aged 12 years and older, you should take 2 caplets every 6 hours as long as you have symptoms. However, make sure not to exceed 6 caplets in a 24-hour period unless your doctor advises otherwise. It's also important to limit your use to no more than 10 days unless directed by a healthcare professional.

For children under 12 years old, it's best to consult a doctor before giving them this medication. This ensures that they receive the appropriate care and dosage for their age and condition. Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions for safe and effective use.

What to Avoid

You should avoid using this product if you have ever had an allergic reaction to it or any of its ingredients. Additionally, do not take this medication alongside any other drugs 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 a doctor or pharmacist for clarification. Taking these precautions will help ensure your safety while using this product.

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 significantly increase the risk of severe liver damage.

You should also be aware of potential allergic reactions, which may manifest as severe skin issues like redness, blisters, or rashes. If you experience any of these symptoms, 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 before using this product. Always stop use and contact a healthcare professional if your pain worsens, lasts more than 10 days, or if you develop new symptoms, redness, or swelling, as these could indicate a more serious condition. In case of overdose, seek medical assistance right away, even if you don't notice any symptoms.

Warnings and Precautions

This product contains acetaminophen, which can lead to severe liver damage if you take more than 4,000 mg in a day, use it with other medications that also contain acetaminophen, 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 rashes. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop using the product and seek medical help immediately.

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

Overdose

If you suspect an overdose, it’s important to seek medical help immediately. 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.

Signs of an overdose can vary, but they may include unusual drowsiness, confusion, or difficulty breathing. If you notice any of these symptoms, don’t hesitate to get help right away. Remember, it’s always better to be safe and seek assistance 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 you are considering using 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 caplets every 6 hours as needed, but they should not exceed 6 caplets in a 24-hour period unless a doctor advises otherwise.

Keep in mind that this medication should not be used for more than 10 days unless directed by a healthcare professional. Additionally, be aware that if an overdose occurs, it is crucial to seek medical help immediately, even if there are no noticeable symptoms. Your child's safety is the top priority, so always follow these guidelines 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 keep in mind that older adults may have different responses to medications, so discussing any concerns with a doctor is essential for ensuring safety and effectiveness.

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 your kidneys are not functioning properly.

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

Hepatic Impairment

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

Drug Interactions

It's important to talk to your doctor or pharmacist before using this medication, especially if you are taking warfarin, a blood-thinning drug. This is crucial because combining certain medications can affect how well they work or increase the risk of side effects.

While there are no specific drug interactions or laboratory test interactions noted, it's always best to keep your healthcare provider informed about all the medications and supplements you are taking. This way, they can help ensure your treatment is safe and effective.

Storage and Handling

To ensure the best performance and safety of your product, store it at a temperature between 20-25°C (68-77°F). This temperature range helps maintain the integrity of the device.

When handling the product, be sure to do so with clean hands and in a clean environment to avoid contamination. Always follow any specific disposal instructions provided to ensure safe and responsible disposal of any components.

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. Always keep this medication out of reach of children.

In case of an overdose, seek medical help immediately or contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222. Quick medical attention is crucial for both adults and children, even if there are no noticeable signs or symptoms.

FAQ

What is Acetaminophen used for?

Acetaminophen is a pain reliever and fever reducer that temporarily relieves minor aches and pains due to conditions like the common cold, headache, backache, toothache, and menstrual cramps.

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

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

Are there any warnings associated with Acetaminophen?

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

What should I do in case of an overdose?

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

Can I use Acetaminophen if I have liver disease?

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

Is Acetaminophen safe to use during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

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

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 right away.

Who should not use Acetaminophen?

Do not use Acetaminophen if you have ever had an allergic reaction to it or any of its ingredients, or if you are using any other drug containing acetaminophen.

Packaging Info

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

Packaging configurations for Acetaminophen.
Details

Drug Information (PDF)

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

View product document (PDF)

Description

No description information is available for the drug.

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 instructed to take 2 caplets every 6 hours as needed for symptom relief. The maximum dosage should not exceed 6 caplets 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 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, 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.

  • History of allergic reaction to this product or any of its ingredients, as this may lead to severe hypersensitivity reactions.

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. Symptoms indicative of such reactions include skin reddening, blisters, and rash. Should any of these symptoms manifest, 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, those taking the anticoagulant warfarin should seek advice from a doctor or pharmacist before use, as interactions may occur.

In the event of an overdose, immediate medical attention is crucial. Patients should be directed to contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 or seek emergency medical help without delay, regardless of the presence of symptoms.

Patients should also be advised to discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional if they experience any of the following: worsening pain lasting more than 10 days, fever that worsens or persists for more than 3 days, the emergence of new symptoms, or any signs of redness or swelling. These symptoms may indicate a serious underlying condition that requires further evaluation.

Side Effects

Severe liver damage may occur in patients who exceed 4,000 mg of acetaminophen within a 24-hour period, use other medications containing acetaminophen, 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 not to use this product in conjunction with any other drug containing acetaminophen, whether prescription or nonprescription. Those with a history of allergic reactions to acetaminophen or any of its ingredients should also refrain from using this product. Individuals with liver disease should consult a healthcare professional prior to use. Additionally, patients taking the blood-thinning medication warfarin should seek guidance from a doctor or pharmacist before using this product.

Patients should discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider if pain worsens or persists beyond 10 days, if fever intensifies or lasts more than 3 days, if new symptoms arise, or if redness or swelling occurs, as these may indicate a serious condition.

In the case of an overdose, it is crucial for patients 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 taking the anticoagulant warfarin should consult with a healthcare professional prior to using this medication. This precaution is necessary to evaluate potential interactions that may affect the efficacy of warfarin or increase the risk of bleeding.

Currently, there are no additional drug interactions or laboratory test interactions reported for this medication. Therefore, routine monitoring or dosage adjustments are not indicated based on the available data. However, ongoing assessment of the patient's overall medication regimen is recommended to ensure safety and efficacy.

Packaging & NDC

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

Packaging configurations for Acetaminophen.
Details

Pediatric Use

Pediatric patients under 12 years of age should consult a healthcare professional before use. For adolescents aged 12 years and older, the recommended dosing is 2 caplets every 6 hours as needed, with a maximum of 6 caplets in a 24-hour period unless otherwise directed by a physician. The duration of use should not exceed 10 days unless specifically instructed by a healthcare provider.

In cases of overdose, prompt medical attention is essential for both children and adults, even if no immediate signs or symptoms are 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 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. It is essential to evaluate the potential risks and benefits associated with the use of this drug during pregnancy and lactation. Healthcare providers can offer guidance based on individual circumstances and the latest clinical data.

Lactation

Lactating mothers are advised to consult a health professional prior to using this medication. There is no specific data available regarding the excretion of this medication in 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 absence of guidance 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 drug's metabolism and clearance. 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 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

If pregnant or breastfeeding, it is advised to consult a health professional prior to use. No specific non-teratogenic effects have been identified in the available data. Additionally, there are no detailed findings regarding nonclinical toxicology or animal pharmacology and toxicology provided in the current information.

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. In the event of an overdose, it is crucial for patients 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 products containing acetaminophen, whether prescription or nonprescription. If patients are uncertain about the presence of acetaminophen in other medications, 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 they experience new symptoms, or if they notice any redness or swelling, as these may indicate a serious condition.

Patients with a history of allergic reactions to this product or any of its ingredients should be advised against its use. Additionally, those with liver disease should seek medical advice before using this medication. Patients taking the blood-thinning medication warfarin should also consult with a doctor or pharmacist prior to use to ensure safety.

Storage and Handling

The product is supplied in various package configurations, with specific NDC numbers available for identification. It is essential to store the product at a controlled temperature range of 20-25°C (68-77°F) to maintain its integrity and efficacy. Proper storage conditions should be ensured to prevent any degradation of the product.

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 essential to keep the medication out of reach of children. In the event of an overdose, patients must seek immediate medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222, as prompt medical attention is crucial for both adults and children, even if no symptoms are apparent.

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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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.