DRUGS AND SUPPLEMENTS

Acetaminophen biphasic or extended-release tablets

July 17, 2018

Acetaminophen biphasic or extended-release tablets

What is this medicine?

ACETAMINOPHEN (a set a MEE noe fen) is a pain reliever. It is used to treat mild pain and fever.

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the package or prescription label. Do not cut, crush or chew this medicine. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 12 years of age for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

  • breathing problems

  • fever or sore throat

  • redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth

  • trouble passing urine or change in the amount of urine

  • unusual bleeding or bruising

  • unusually weak or tired

  • yellowing of the eyes or skin

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

  • headache

  • nausea, vomiting

What may interact with this medicine?

  • alcohol

  • imatinib

  • isoniazid

  • other medicines with acetaminophen

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Protect from moisture and heat. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • if you often drink alcohol

  • liver disease

  • an unusual or allergic reaction to acetaminophen, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant

  • breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Tell your doctor or health care professional if the pain lasts more than 10 days (5 days for children), if it gets worse, or if there is a new or different kind of pain. Also, check with your doctor if a fever lasts for more than 3 days.

Do not take other medicines that contain acetaminophen with this medicine. Always read labels carefully. If you have questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

If you take too much acetaminophen get medical help right away. Too much acetaminophen can be very dangerous and cause liver damage. Even if you do not have symptoms, it is important to get help right away.

Updated:  

July 17, 2018