Acetaminophen

Description

Acetaminophen extended-release tablets, USP, are formulated as capsule-shaped tablets, each containing 650 mg of acetaminophen. These tablets are indicated as a pain reliever and fever reducer, specifically for the temporary relief of minor arthritis pain. The product is packaged in a bottle containing 50 caplets, designed for convenient dosing and storage. This description pertains to the 50 count bottle carton label for Equaline Acetaminophen extended-release tablets, USP 650 mg.

Uses and Indications

This drug is indicated for the temporary relief of minor aches and pains associated with various conditions, including minor pain of arthritis, muscular aches, backache, headache, toothache, 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 are instructed to take 2 caplets every 8 hours with water. The caplets should be swallowed whole and must not be crushed, chewed, split, or dissolved. The maximum dosage should not exceed 6 caplets within a 24-hour period. Additionally, the use of this medication should not extend beyond 10 days unless directed by a healthcare professional.

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

Contraindications

Use of this product is contraindicated in the following situations:

Patients should not use this product in conjunction with any other medication 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.

Additionally, this product is contraindicated in individuals with a known allergy to acetaminophen or any of the inactive ingredients contained in the formulation, as this may lead to severe allergic reactions.

Warnings and Precautions

Severe liver damage may occur with the use of this product, which contains acetaminophen. Healthcare professionals should advise patients to adhere strictly to the following guidelines to mitigate the risk of liver injury: do not exceed 6 caplets in a 24-hour period, avoid concurrent use with other medications containing acetaminophen, and limit alcohol consumption to fewer than 3 drinks per day while using this product.

Patients with liver disease should consult a healthcare provider prior to use. Additionally, individuals taking the anticoagulant warfarin should seek advice from a doctor or pharmacist before using this product, as potential interactions may necessitate closer monitoring.

In the event of an overdose, immediate medical assistance is crucial. Patients should be instructed 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 discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional if any of the following occur: worsening pain lasting more than 10 days, fever that persists or worsens beyond 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 the potential for serious adverse reactions, particularly related to liver health. The product contains acetaminophen, and severe liver damage may occur if patients exceed the maximum daily dosage of 6 caplets within a 24-hour period, take it in conjunction with other medications containing acetaminophen, or consume 3 or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product.

Patients are advised not to use this product if they are allergic to acetaminophen or any of the inactive ingredients. Additionally, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before use if the patient has liver disease or is taking the blood-thinning medication warfarin.

Patients should discontinue use and seek medical advice if they experience worsening pain that lasts more than 10 days, a fever that persists for more than 3 days, the emergence of new symptoms, or any signs of redness or swelling, as these may indicate a serious condition.

In the event of an overdose, it is critical for patients to seek immediate medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222. Prompt medical attention is essential for both adults and children, even if no signs or symptoms are initially apparent.

Drug Interactions

The concomitant use of acetaminophen and warfarin may elevate the risk of bleeding due to potential pharmacodynamic interactions. It is advisable to monitor patients closely for signs of increased bleeding and to consider adjusting the dosage of warfarin as necessary based on the patient's clinical response and INR levels. Regular monitoring of coagulation parameters is recommended to ensure patient safety.

Packaging & NDC

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

Pediatric Use

Pediatric patients under 18 years of age should consult a healthcare professional prior to use. It is important to assess the appropriateness of treatment and dosage for this population.

Geriatric Use

There is no specific information regarding the use of this medication in geriatric patients, including dosage adjustments, safety concerns, or special precautions. Healthcare providers should exercise caution when prescribing this medication to elderly patients, as individual responses may vary. Monitoring for potential adverse effects and therapeutic efficacy is recommended in this population.

Pregnancy

Pregnant patients should consult a healthcare professional before using this medication. The safety of this drug during pregnancy has not been established, and potential risks to fetal outcomes are not fully understood. It is essential for women of childbearing potential to discuss their individual circumstances with their healthcare provider to weigh the benefits and risks associated with the use of this medication during pregnancy.

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 should consult a healthcare professional prior to use, particularly if they have concurrent liver disease. It is essential to assess renal function and consider potential dosing adjustments or monitoring requirements based on the degree of renal impairment. Careful evaluation of the patient's overall health status is recommended to ensure safe and effective use of the medication.

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 that patients do not exceed the maximum daily dosage of 6 caplets within a 24-hour period. Additionally, patients should avoid concurrent use with other medications containing acetaminophen, as this can further increase the risk of liver injury.

Patients with compromised liver function are advised to consult a healthcare professional prior to using this product, particularly if they have a history of liver disease. Furthermore, consumption of three or more alcoholic drinks per day while using this product is strongly discouraged, as it may exacerbate the risk of liver damage. Regular monitoring of liver function may be warranted in patients with hepatic impairment to ensure safety and efficacy during treatment.

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 severity of symptoms may vary based on the specific substance involved in the overdose. Therefore, a thorough assessment and monitoring of the patient are essential.

Management of an overdose may include supportive care and symptomatic treatment, tailored to the individual’s clinical presentation. Continuous evaluation and appropriate interventions should be initiated as necessary to mitigate potential complications.

Nonclinical Toxicology

No information is available regarding teratogenic or non-teratogenic effects. Additionally, there is no data provided concerning nonclinical toxicology, animal pharmacology, or toxicology.

Postmarketing Experience

No postmarketing experience details are available in the insert text.

Patient Counseling

Healthcare providers should advise patients on the importance of seeking immediate medical assistance in the event of an overdose. Patients should be informed to contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 without delay. It is crucial to emphasize that prompt medical attention is necessary for both adults and children, even if they do not exhibit any signs or symptoms of overdose. This information is vital for ensuring patient safety and effective management of potential overdose situations.

Storage and Handling

The product is supplied in a container that is tamper evident. It should not be used if the imprinted seal is broken or missing from the bottle.

For optimal storage, the product must be kept at a temperature range of 20 to 25° C (68 to 77° F). It is essential to avoid exposure to excessive heat, specifically temperatures exceeding 40° C (104° F). Proper handling and storage conditions are crucial to maintain the integrity and efficacy of the product.

Additional Clinical Information

The medication is administered orally. Clinicians should advise patients to consult a doctor prior to use if they have liver disease or are taking the blood-thinning medication warfarin. Additionally, patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding should seek guidance from a health professional before using this medication.

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)