Did you know that overdoing on acetaminophen is hazardous?
Numerous people will know acetaminophen as a primary pain-relief ingredient in numerous medications. Many also know excessive acetaminophen is bad for the liver. However, there is quite a chance of overdoing on acetaminophen. The chance is more for people having several medications to ease symptoms throughout the cold and flu months. Going by statistics, acetaminophen overdose is the chief reason for acute liver failure in the USA. Liver disease specialists say that severe damage is possible in people who have acetaminophen of over four grams in 24 hours. They add that even two grams of acetaminophen had with alcohol can cause problems.
Acetaminophen is present in hundreds of drugs
Acetaminophen is the most common of the drug ingredients in the USA. It is present 600+ prescription and OTC drugs. Some of them are Percocet, Vicodin, Tylenol, Midol, Nyquil, and Sudafed.
There is a great chance of having more than 4 grams of acetaminophen
There is a great chance of acetaminophen dosage of over 4 grams. 500 mg of acetaminophen is present in a Tylenol extra strength pill. Individuals who have two pills as much as four times in a day will consume 4 grams. If they take a cough medicine having acetaminophen they can easily surpass the suggested daily limit.
Some statistics on acetaminophen overuse in the USA
The approximate number of cases of acute liver failure that happen in the USA from acetaminophen overuse each year is 1,600. The approximate number of deaths each year from overdosing in the USA is 500. Acetaminophen is a prevalent reason that people get in touch poison control centers all over the USA.
Avoiding acetaminophen overdose
People should know the amount of acetaminophen in one dose. They should know the gap at which to take another dose. They should know the number of doses that are safe in a day.
Never have more than prescribed. This rule stands for people whose pain or fever doesn’t get better. Having more increases the chance of liver damage.
Never take several medicines that have acetaminophen at a time.
It’s important to not have alcohol when on medicines having acetaminophen.
Long-term use of acetaminophen may be hazardous. So, people taking medications containing acetaminophen regularly should check with their physician.
People who feel that they have taken excessive acetaminophen must seek help immediately
Those who feel that they’ve exceeded the suggested acetaminophen dosage should call 9-1-1 or 1-800-222-1222 immediately. They must not wait for the symptoms of liver damage that include queasiness, vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach ache, sweating, and more.
Much study has not been done on the effects of the use of acetaminophen for a long time. No guidelines are in place for the long-term use of acetaminophen. People are advised to not have it for a long time. Those who feel the need for it should seek the advice of their doctor.