Drug
Acetaminophen
Pronounced
"a-SEET-a-MIN-oh-fen"
Uses
This drug is used to treat mild to moderate pain (from headaches, menstrual periods, toothaches, backaches, osteoarthritis, or cold/flu aches and pains) and to reduce fever.
Warning
Taking too much acetaminophen may cause serious (possibly fatal) liver disease. Adults should not take more than 4000 milligrams (4 grams) of acetaminophen a day. People with liver problems and children should take less acetaminophen. Ask your doctor or pharmacist how much acetaminophen is safe to take.
Do not use with any other drug containing acetaminophen without asking your doctor or pharmacist first. Acetaminophen is in many nonprescription and prescription medications (such as pain/fever drugs or cough-and-cold products). Check the labels on all your medicines to see if they contain acetaminophen, and ask your pharmacist if you are unsure.
Get medical help right away if you take too much acetaminophen (overdose), even if you feel well. Overdose symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, sweating, stomach/abdominal pain, extreme tiredness, yellowing eyes/skin, and dark urine.
Daily alcohol use, especially when combined with acetaminophen, may damage your liver. Avoid alcohol.
How to Use This Medication
See also Warning section.
Use this product rectally as directed. Follow all directions on the product package. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
If you are giving acetaminophen to a child, be sure you use a product that is meant for children. Use your child's age (or weight) to find the right dose on the product package.
First, unwrap 1 suppository. Lie down on your left side with right knee bent. If giving to a child, the child may lie on the side or flat on the back. Gently push the suppository into the rectum with your finger. After inserting the suppository, if necessary, hold the buttocks together for 30 to 60 seconds to keep the suppository in place. Remain lying down for a few minutes, and avoid having a bowel movement for an hour or longer so the drug will be absorbed. The suppository is for rectal use only.
Pain medications work best if they are used as the first signs of pain occur. If you wait until the symptoms have worsened, the medication may not work as well.
Do not use more than recommended. Do not use this medication for fever for more than 3 days unless directed by your doctor. For adults, do not use this product for pain for more than 10 days (5 days in children) unless directed by your doctor. If the child has a sore throat (especially with high fever, headache, or nausea/vomiting), consult the doctor promptly.
Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse or if you develop new symptoms. If you think you may have a serious medical problem, get medical help right away.