Acetaminophen
TYLENOL
What it isTRPV1 agonist and central COX inhibitor with little anti-inflammatory activity; pain and fever.
Why this oneUnlike NSAIDs, it does not inhibit platelets or meaningfully inflame the stomach, making it useful with anticoagulation.
What limits itOverdose causes hepatic failure; combination products invite accidental stacking. Use lower ceilings in liver disease or heavy alcohol use.
FDA-approved for
- pain/fever (~1951)
FDA label
Read the full label on DailyMed ↗
| FDA dosing | Population | Start | Target | Max |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pain / fever (OTC analgesic-antipyretic) | Adults and children ≥12 yr | 2 caplets q6h PRN | 2 caplets q6h PRN | 6 caplets/24 h |
| Pain / fever (OTC analgesic-antipyretic) | Children <12 yr | Ask a doctor | Ask a doctor | Undefined |
Renal Undefined
Hepatic Undefined
Doses spaced q6h; maximum 6 caplets per 24 hours.
Instructions
- Do not take more than directed.
- Do not exceed 6 caplets in 24 hours unless directed by a doctor.
- Do not take for more than 10 days unless directed by a doctor.
- Children under 12 years: ask a doctor.
Pregnancy Undefined
Lactation Undefined
NO BOXED WARNINGS
Principal riskHepatotoxicity in overdose, and from stacked combination products
Cost, est. cash$10–$500/month
Generic entry1986
Classes and tags
Clinical profile
Legacy pregnancy categoryB
Defining liabilityUsually well tolerated therapeutically; overdose may cause delayed fulminant hepatic failure.
Active metabolites
Mechanism of action: Acetaminophen ballicule
Open Acetaminophen in the interactive console ↗
Memory aids: mascots and interaction avatars
“I see the mini fin” = acetaminophen
“Pair a’ aces” = paracetamol
“A papule” = APAP
“Tile n’ all” = Tylenol
