Acetaminophen, better known as Tylenol, is a medication used to treat mild to moderate pain from headaches, muscle aches, menstrual periods, colds and sore throats, toothaches, backaches, and also can treat reactions to vaccinations and fever.  It is the most common drug ingredient in America and found in more than 600 different medications.  It is safe, but only if taken at the correct dosage.

Is there a proper way to take Tylenol?

According to the National Institute of Health, you should not exceed 4,000 mg of acetaminophen, aka Tylenol, in one day. Parents should make sure medication directions are followed, especially for children between 2 through 11, and Tylenol should never be given to kids that are 2 years old or younger.

Similarly, you should not drink while taking Tylenol.  Three or more alcoholic beverages per day put people at an additional risk of overdose, because alcohol weakens the liver.  Those with liver disease, such as hepatitis C, are also at an increased risk for complications

What happens if you take too much, can you overdose?

Taking too much acetaminophen can cause liver damage serious enough to require a liver transplant or cause death.  Many don’t know this but Tylenol is the #1 drug associated with liver injury.  Because liver damage symptoms include nausea and vomiting, people might mistake them for cold or flu symptoms, which are not uncommon during the changing seasons.

How can you prevent an overdose?

Always read and follow the label.  Taking more than the recommended dose or using a different measuring system, like a spoon instead of the provided measuring cup, can be dangerous.  Also, check to see if your medications contain acetaminophen.  Over-the-counter medications contain the word "acetaminophen" on the front of the package or bottle and in the active ingredient section.

Here is a list of popular over the counter medications that contain acetaminophen:

·         Alka-Seltzer Plus Liquid Gels

·         Benadryl

·         Dimetapp

·         Excedrin

·         Sudafed

·         Theraflu

·         Tylenol

·         Vicks

·         Aizcam

·         Dayquil and Nyquil

For prescription drugs, acetaminophen is occasionally abbreviated as APAP, AC, Acetaminophn, Acetaminoph, Acetaminop, Acetamin, or Acetam.  So be mindful and be diligent when taking medications.  Never take two or more medications that both contain acetaminophen, as this puts you at high risk for a potential overdose.  If you are unsure of what is in your medications, you can ask your pharmacist to inform you.