Liver Damage From Tylenol

Tylenol is the brand name for the generic drug known as acetaminophen. It is used as an antipyretic (fever reducer) and an analgesic (pain reliever). Tylenol is relatively free of side effects when taken in the recommended dosages; however, not following recommended dosages can cause liver damage.

Uses

• Tylenol is generally used for relief from the common cold, viral infections, the flu and other disorders where pain and fever may occur. It is also used by people who cannot or do not want to take aspirin.

Liver Damage

• According to the FDA, overdoses of acetaminophen can cause liver damage that range from abnormalities in liver function blood tests to acute liver failure and death.

Symptoms

• Early symptoms like nausea, vomiting and loss of appetite may be mistaken for flu. Other symptoms include drowsiness, sweating, confusion, abdominal tenderness, low blood pressure, abnormal heart rhythms and yellowing of the eyes and skin.

Risks

• Risks are greater if you have three or more alcoholic drinks per day; alcohol increases liver toxicity from overdoses of acetaminophen. Risks are also increased if you have viral infections of the liver or liver disease.

Warnings

• Never take more than one medicine at a time that contains acetaminophen. Also, taking more Tylenol than directed, even if fever or pain remain, increases the risk of liver damage.