Acetaminophen, also called paracetamol or Tylenol, is used to treat moderate pain. It belongs to a class of drugs called analgesics (pain relievers) and antipyretics (fever reducers). The analgesic drug relieves headaches, menstrual cramps, fever, and general body aches by elevating the body’s pain threshold.

It reduces fever by its action on the temperature-regulating center of the brain. Acetaminophen is the most used analgesic recommended by the world health organization as first-line therapy in pain conditions.

Weekly, 23% of the unites states population, which is more than 50 million people consume acetaminophen as it is used in many products in combination with other preparations. 

What you should know

• Acetaminophen is also called Paracetamol or Tylenol and is available in capsules, caplets, and tablets. 
• It is a mild pain reliever and is safe for adults, children, and pregnant mothers if administered in the right dosage.
• Acetaminophen is the most common drug ingredient in America found in more than 600 different medicines.
• When used properly, side effect with acetaminophen is rare. Common effects may be rash or nausea.
• Caution: Acetaminophen is responsible for an estimated 56,000 emergency department visits and 500 deaths per year in the United States.
• Consumption of too much acetaminophen can cause severe damage to the liver, serious damage to require a liver transplant. Liver damage can occur when the maximum daily dose of 3000 mg is exceeded. 
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To be sure that you take acetaminophen safely, you should not take more than one product containing acetaminophen. Read labels and take exactly as directed.