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Generic Name: acetaminophen

An analgesic - It is used to treat mild pain and fever

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What is this medicine?

ACETAMINOPHEN (a set a MEE noe fen) is a pain reliever. It is used to treat mild pain and fever.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

if you frequently drink alcohol containing drinks
liver disease
an unusual or allergic reaction to acetaminophen, other medicines, foods, dyes or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the package or prescription label. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 6 years of age for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

alcohol
imatinib
isoniazid
other medicines with acetaminophen

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Tell your doctor or health care professional if the pain lasts more than 10 days (5 days for children), if it gets worse, or if there is a new or different kind of pain. Also, check with your doctor if a fever lasts for more than 3 days.

Do not take acetaminophen (Tylenol) or other medicines that contain acetaminophen with this medicine. Too much acetaminophen can be very dangerous and cause an overdose. Always read labels carefully.

Report any possible overdose to your doctor right away, even if there are no symptoms. The effects of extra doses may not be seen for many days.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
breathing problems
fever or sore throat
trouble passing urine or change in the amount of urine
unusual bleeding or bruising
unusually weak or tired
yellowing of the eyes or skin

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

headache
nausea, stomach upset

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Protect from moisture and heat. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

All visitors to AARP.org should seek expert medical care and consult their own physicians for any specific health issues. Read this disclaimer in its entirety.

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Note: This information is not intended to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions, or adverse effects for this drug. If you have question about the drug(s) you are taking, check with your health care professional.

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