What You Need To Know About Tylenol Overdose

Acetaminophen is the most common drug that is purchased over the counter. The brand name drug, Tylenol, is relied upon by numerous people who use it for its pain-relieving and fever-reducing properties. It is advisable that a person not take more than 4 grams (4000mg) of acetaminophen in a 24 hour period. It is proven that taking more than this amount causes liver damage. In severe cases, an acetaminophen overdose can be fatal.

Overdoses of acetaminophen are common in children, who can accidentally ingest the drug when mistaking it for candy or juice. In addition, there are some cases where adults can be victims of an unintended acetaminophen overdose. These symptoms are usually a result of taking an incorrect dosage or the effects of multiple medications taken at the same time. It is common that acetaminophen is in numerous drugs because it acts as a vital ingredient which functions to reduce pain. It is always a good idea to consult with your family physician if it is safe to keep taking Tylenol or acetaminophen alongside your other medications.

It usually takes over 12 hours for symptoms to appear from an acetaminophen overdose. Symptoms include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Jaundice (yellowing of eyes and skin)
• Sweating
• Irritability
• Loss of appetite

It is important that one seeks emergency attention if they fall under one of these specifications:

• Someone who is 5 years or older has taken 91mg/pound of body weight within 8 hours
• A person of any age who has taken 68mg/pound of body weight or a total of 6 grams of acetaminophen in a period of 24 hours.