Acetaminophen (e.g. Tylenol) is a safe and effective pain reliever. But taking too much could lead to serious liver damage. There are about 600 products on the market that contain acetaminophen, including cough-and-cold products and sleep aids. It is also an ingredient in many prescription pain relievers.

Parents should be cautious when giving acetaminophen to children. For example, the infant drop formula is three times stronger than the children’s suspension. To help ensure your infant is getting the infants’ formula and your child is getting the children’s formula, follow the directions on the label every time you use a medicine, including checking intended age ranges.

To avoid accidental overdosing, it’s important not to take more than the recommended dose. Also, don’t take acetaminophen for more days than recommended, or take more than one drug product that contains acetaminophen at the same time. Taking more than the recommended dose will not provide more relief and could be dangerous. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist about any questions you have about taking acetaminophen or any other medications.

 

— Source: U.S. Food and Drug Administration

 

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