Tylenol Toxicity,
Acetaminophen Poisoning
& Liver Damage
What is acetaminophen?
Acetaminophen is a popular, over-the-counter remedy for aches, pains, fever, swelling, and symptoms of the common cold and influenza.
What drugs contain acetaminophen?
Acetaminophen is found in more than 600 over-the-counter brand name and generic drugs, such as:
- NyQuil
- Aspirin-Free Excedrin
- Bayer Select Maximum-Strength Headache Relief Formula
- Benadryl Allergy Sinus
- St. Joseph Aspirin-Free Fever Reducer for Children
- All varieties of Tylenol
How do people get acetaminophen poisoning from an over-the-counter drug?
According to researchers, many Americans believe that Tylenol and other acetaminophen-containing drugs are completely safe because:
- They are available without a prescription
- They can be administered to children and even babies
- They are used to treat all sorts of minor health problems
Many people take Tylenol or similar drugs on a daily basis, for extended periods of time, or in doses much larger than what is considered safe. This can result in Tylenol toxicity, a form of acetaminophen poisoning, which can cause severe liver damage.
Does acetaminophen cause liver damage?
Acetaminophen poisoning is believed to cause liver damage. According to some studies, acetaminophen causes up to 40 percent of liver failures in the United States. In addition, acetaminophen toxicity kills an average of 100 people and sends roughly 56,000 people to emergency rooms annually.
What is Tylenol toxicity?
Basically, Tylenol toxicity is the poisoning of the liver caused by taking large doses and/or frequent doses of Tylenol, resulting in acetaminophen build-up. The same principle applies for any medication containing acetaminophen in significant amounts. Acetaminophen toxicity is caused by depletion of the amount of glutathione levels in the liver and may ultimately result in liver failure.
Who is most at risk for acetaminophen poisoning?
Sadly, anyone who used Tylenol (or other medications containing acetaminophen) regularly may be as risk for acetaminophen poisoning. When taken in proper doses, the drug is considered extremely safe, but users who drink alcohol, take acetaminophen when fasting, or exceed the recommended dosage are most at risk.
In addition to the plethora of over-the–counter drugs containing acetaminophen the following prescription pain killers also contain acetaminophen:
Codeine/Tylenol, #1,2,3,4,; Darvocet; Lorlab; Lorcetl Norco; Percocet; Tylox; and Vicodin.
Ways to be safe:
Do not drink alcohol while taking Tylenol. It is also not recommended as a headache remedy for a hangover after bingeing on alcohol.
Stop the use of Tylenol on some days.
Vitamin B (Pyridoxine) supplements may protect the liver against some toxins.
Be careful with combinations of medications that contain acetaminophen when treating minor colds and pain. Always follow recommended dosages for “more” is “not better” in this case.
