Many individuals resort to over-the-counter drugs like acetaminophen (APAP) to alleviate the pain resulting from a surgery, bad joint, joint, toothache, or muscle fatigue. In fact, many people may depend on the drug that causes rashes, liver failure, and even death a little too much without realizing it. According to the National Institutes of Health, "Acetaminophen overdose is one of the most common poisonings worldwide."

A single gel tablet of Extra Strength Tylenol contains 500 mg of acetaminophen—The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has set the recommended maximum of 4,000 mg for adults per day. This can add up with individuals with chronic pain.

Pain medications with opioids like as oxycodone (Percocet), hydrocodone (Vicodin) and codeine (Tylenol with Codeine) that contain acetaminophen are often called combination drugs. Now, the FDA is asking doctors to stop prescribing drugs that contain more than 325 mg of acetaminophen per dose.

"Many consumers are often unaware that many products (both prescription and OTC) contain acetaminophen, making it easy to accidentally take too much," the FDA said in a statement. The FDA, however, will address over-the-counter products in through other actions. 

More than half of the manufacturers agreed to limit the amount of acetaminophen in prescription combination drugs to 325 mg per capsule by January, but some drugs with higher amounts of acetaminophen still exist.

To prevent acetaminophen overuse, read the drug label or ingredient list in the patient information leaflet that came with your prescription. If you are still unsure if your prescription contains acetaminophen, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Consuming alcohol while taking acetaminophen can increase the risk of poisoning. Also, for some, acetaminophen can cause blisters, serious rashes, reddening of the skin, and detachment of the upper layer of skin. If such signs occur, contact your physician immediately.

Additional Resource:

http://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ConsumerUpdates/ucm239747.htm