Acetaminophen overdose is one of the most common poisonings worldwide. People often think that acetaminophen, a pain-relieving medicine, is extremely safe. However, it may be deadly if taken in large doses.
This is for information only and not for use in the treatment or management of an actual poison exposure. If you have an exposure, you should call your local emergency number (such as 911) or the National Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.
Alternative NamesTylenol overdose; Paracetamol overdose
Where FoundAcetaminophen is found in a variety of over-the-counter and prescription pain relievers.
Tylenol is a brand name for acetominophen. Other medicines that contain acetominophen include:
Note: This list is not all inclusive.
Common dosage forms and strengths:
*mg = milligrams
You should not take more than 4000 mg of acetaminophen a day. Taking more, especially 7000 mg or more, can lead to a severe overdose if not treated.
SymptomsNote: Symptoms may not occur until 12 or more hours after the acetaminophen was swallowed.
Home TreatmentThere is no home treatment. Seek immediate medical help.
Before Calling EmergencyDetermine the following information:
The National Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) can be called from anywhere in the United States. This national hotline number will let you talk to experts in poisoning. They will give you further instructions.
This is a free and confidential service. All local poison control centers in the United States use this national number. You should call if you have any questions about poisoning or poison prevention. It does NOT need to be an emergency. You can call for any reason, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
See: Poison control center - emergency number
What to expect at the emergency roomThe health care provider will measure and monitor the patient's vital signs, including temperature, pulse, breathing rate, and blood pressure. Blood tests will be done to check how much acetaminophen is in the blood. The patient may receive:
If treatment is received within 8 hours of the overdose, there is a very good chance of recovery.
However, without rapid treatment, a very large overdose of acetaminophen can lead to liver failure and death in a few days.
ReferencesGoldfrank LR, ed. Goldfrank's Toxicologic Emergencies. 8th ed. New York, NY: McGraw Hill; 2006.
Acetaminophen overdose is a common cause of liver failure and accounts for about 200 deaths per year in the United States. It is important to follow recommended dosages and seek medical help in case of overdose.
acetylcysteine can be used as an antidote in acetaminophen overdose
You die. Family member just passed away due to Motrin overdose.
NO. Norco is a combination of hydrocodone and acetaminophen. Darvocet is propoxyphene and acetaminophen. WARNING: Darvocet in overdose is highly toxic, many fatalities have resulted from such overdoses.
Yes, taking too much Tylenol PM can cause an overdose due to the acetaminophen content. An overdose of acetaminophen can lead to serious liver damage and even be life-threatening. It's important to always follow dosing instructions and never exceed the recommended amount. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical help immediately.
Long term damage from acetaminophen is normally from using it every day for extended periods of time. If you survived the overdose you have probably recovered completely.
Yes, an overdose of Cortal, which contains paracetamol (acetaminophen), can lead to severe headaches or migraines as a symptom of toxicity. Paracetamol overdose may cause liver damage, which can trigger a range of neurological symptoms, including severe headaches. If an overdose is suspected, it’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately.
Yes. Tylenol also known by the names acetaminophen or paracetamol and often abbreviated as apap is contained in Percocet. 1 Percocet tablet contains anywhere from 325 mg to 650mg of acetaminophen so care should be used when taking it in order to avoid an unintentional overdose of acetaminophen.
One view:Gastric lavage is the only treatment for overdose cases of acetaminophen (paracetamol).Note: Overdose of this drug can damage your liver.Another View:You cannot treat this at home. If you have confirmed that you have acetaminophen toxicity, you need to get to an emergency room immediately, within 72 hours.Otherwise, if you have overdosed on acetaminophen, your liver may completely fail, and you could lose your life.At the hospital, they will treat you with a drug called N Acetyl-Cysteine, or NAC, that quickly raises your glutathione levels. Glutathione is a potent detoxifier, and will remove toxic metabolites from your liver left behind by the acetaminophen, thereby protecting your liver from complete failure and certain death.
Yes. The maximum daily dosage of Tylenol (acetaminophen) is 4,000 mg. In the case of an overdose, especially a severe overdose of 7,000 mg or more, immediate medical help should be sought. If treatment is received within 8 hours, the chance of recovery is very good. Without rapid treatment, a very large overdose of acetaminophen can lead to liver failure and death in a few days.
You can if you do not exceed the maximum dose of Tylenol taken at a time (1000mg) and during the day (4000mg). Tylenol 3 contains 300mg of acetaminophen. Tylenol Extra Strength contains 500mg of acetaminophen, Tylenol 8 Hour contains 650mg of acetaminophen. So, you have to count not to overdose.
A drug overdose involving acetaminophen (paracetamol) can lead to severe liver damage, resulting in symptoms such as vomiting and gastrointestinal bleeding. Additionally, overdose of certain anticoagulants, like warfarin, can cause bleeding as well. It’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention in cases of suspected overdose, as timely treatment can be lifesaving.