Tylenol Poisoning Prevention

Tylenol is the brand name for the generic drug acetaminophen. It is used to relieve pain and reduce fevers. It is sold alone or in combination with other over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription drugs, such as Theraflu or hydrocodone (Vicodin). On a hydrocodone prescription drug container, acetaminophen may be listed as APAP. If you take too much Tylenol, you raise your risk of permanent liver damage which, if left untreated, could result in death.

Ingredients

• Before taking any medication, check the ingredient list. If the medication contains acetaminophen, check any other medication you also may be taking. If more than one contains acetaminophen, you must choose which drug to take. Do not take both drugs simultaneously, due to risk of liver damage.

Alcohol

• The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recommends that if you drink three or more alcoholic beverages daily and take Tylenol, you are at risk for liver damage, even if you follow the recommended dose.

Warfarin

• If you take warfarin you should not take Tylenol products as it may raise your risk of bleeding.

Dosage

• Never take more than the recommended dose and take it only for as long as you have been directed, or for the duration that the label on the medication suggests. Even taking slightly more Tylenol than recommended can cause liver damage.

Symptoms

• According to the FDA, if you experience nausea, vomiting or loss of appetite when taking Tylenol products, you should stop taking them and consult your physician. Many people mistake these early signs of liver damage for the flu.