Acetaminophen, also known as paracetamol, has been used as a home pain reliever for over 30 years. In addition to its primary purpose as a pain reliever, acetaminophen can be used to relieve fevers in adults and children. Acetaminophen is probably the most widely used pain relief medication.

The recommended adult dose of acetaminophen is 650 mg every four to six hours and no more than eight dosages within 24 hours. Tablets should be stored at room temperature.

One of the best features of acetaminophen is that it can be used by any age group including young children and senior citizens. It is completely safe and it doesn’t interfere with other medications. Often, people who are sensitive to aspirin can take acetaminophen without experiencing problems. Even people with ulcers generally are able to take it. Acetaminophen can also usually be taken during pregnancy, although it is best for pregnant women to consult with their doctors. Because of its lack of side effects and mild nature, acetaminophen is frequently prescribed in hospitals. Acetaminophen is the preferred analgesic for asthma sufferers, because aspirin and ibuprofen are much more likely to cause asthma attacks and are to be avoided by asthma sufferers.

Because acetaminophen is processed in the liver, there is a chance that drugs that increase the action of liver enzymes may decrease the effectiveness of acetaminophen. There generally are no side effects associated with this medicine, however in rare cases acetaminophen has been known to cause liver damage. The potential to harm the liver is increased when acetaminophen is combined with drugs or alcohol.

This medication works in a manner that is similar to that of aspirin, but it is not exactly the same. One of the important things to remember about acetaminophen is that while it works for pain relief, it does not work as an anti-inflammatory as do some pain relievers.

Acetaminophen is frequently used in conjunction with decongestants to relieve the symptoms of the common cold, influenza and sinusitis. Generally, acetaminophen is available in tablet form. It is also available in liquid form for young children, though.

Tylenol is one of the most common acetaminophens on the market.