What is this medication for?
Acetaminophen belongs to a group of medicines called analgesics (pain
relievers) and antipyretics (fever reducers). It works quickly to relieve
pain caused by conditions such as headache,
osteoarthritis, and
muscle pain and to reduce fever
caused by infection. Unlike acetylsalicylic
acid (aspirin), which is also an analgesic and antipyretic, acetaminophen does
not reduce inflammation.
Acetaminophen is used by itself as well as in combination medication products
for cough, cold, and pain
relief.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those
listed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all
of the conditions discussed here. If you have not discussed this with your doctor
or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do
not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms
as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their
doctor has not prescribed it. Do not stop taking this medication without
consulting your doctor.
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
Acetaminophen can be used by all age groups safely in recommended doses. Following
are recommended doses according to age group:
0 to under 4 months: 40 mg every 4 to 6 hours to a maximum of 200 mg
in one day
4 to under 12 months: 80 mg every 4 to 6 hours to a maximum of
400 mg in one day
12 to under 24 months: 120 mg every 4 to 6 hours to a maximum of
600 mg in one day
2 to under 4 years: 160 mg every 4 to 6 hours to a maximum of 800 mg
in one day
4 to under 6 years: 240 mg every 4 to 6 hours to a maximum of 1,200 mg
in one day
6 to under 9 years: 320 mg every 4 to 6 hours to a maximum of 1,600 mg
in one day
9 to under 11 years: 400 mg every 4 to 6 hours to a maximum of
2,000 mg in one day
11 to under 12 years: 480 mg every 4 to 6 hours to a maximum of
2,400 mg in one day
Children (general): 10 to 15 mg per kg of body weight, every 4
to 6 hours, to a maximum of 65 mg/kg in 24 hours
Adults: 325 mg to 650 mg every 4 to 6 hours to a maximum of
4,000 mg in 24 hours
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as
body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor
has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change
the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
When used for self-medication of pain, acetaminophen should not be used for
longer than ten days by adults or five days by children unless advised by a
doctor.
When used for self-medication of fever, acetaminophen should not be used for
longer than 3 days, or for high fevers (greater than 103.1°F), or for recurring
fever, unless directed by a doctor.
Acetaminophen tablets may be taken with or without food. Acetaminophen suppositories
are intended for rectal use only. Ask your pharmacist for proper instructions
to use the suppositories.
Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture,
and keep it out of the reach of children.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Acetaminophen should not be used by anyone who:
- is allergic to acetaminophen or any ingredients of the medication
