Staying Healthy
FDA limits prescription acetaminophen
In January 2011, the FDA ordered makers of prescription acetaminophen drugs — mostly acetaminophen-plus-opioid combinations such as Vicodin and Percocet — to put no more than 325 milligrams (mg) of acetaminophen (better known as Tylenol) in each pill or capsule; currently, these combinations may contain as much as 750 mg. Manufacturers were also told to include a "black box" warning (the most serious kind) on product labels highlighting the risk of severe liver injury. Acetaminophen overdose causes most cases of acute liver failure in the United States, and acetaminophen-containing prescription drugs account for nearly half of them. It happens especially when people try to get additional pain relief by taking more of the prescription drug.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
