NATIONAL
CALIFORNIA
VENTURA
mechanism
  • The analgesic (pain reducing) effects are believed to be due to activation of serotonin pathways in the CNS.
  • Antipyresis (fever reduction) is produced from inhibition of the hypothalamic heat-regulating center.
indications
  • Temporary reduction of fever.
  • Temporary relief of minor aches, pains, and headache.
contraindications
  • Severe hepatic impairment or severe active liver disease
dosing

Adult:

Oral: 1 g every 6 hours as needed; maximum dose: 4 g/day

Pediatric:

15 mg/kg/dose every 6 hours as needed; maximum daily dose: 75 mg/kg/day not to exceed 4 g/day

administration
Oral: May administer without regard to food; may administer with food to decrease possible GI upset
onset

<1 hour

peak

10 to 60 minutes

duration

4 to 6 hours

notes
  • Combination medications: When calculating total daily dose, confirm that all sources (eg, prescription e.g. Norco, OTCs, combinations) are included.
  • Overdose: Acetaminophen is one of the most reported products causing drug-induced liver injury, with ~50% of cases of acute hepatic failure in the US attributed to acetaminophen.
dosage form
Oral tablet: 80 mg, 160 mg 325 mg, 500 mg
Oral liquid and syrup: 160 mg/5 mL
brand name
Tylenol
adverse reactions
  • Hepatotoxicity
    • Hepatotoxicity may result from overdose
  • Gastrointestinal
    • Nausea
    • Vomiting
  • Dermatologic
    • Skin rash
structure
acetaminophen.svg molecular structure