New recommendations by U.S. health regulators aim to limit the prescription of a commonly used drug, citing the risk of liver damage, according to a recent NBC News article.
Acetaminophen is widely used in both prescription and over-the-counter products to reduce pain and fever from acute injuries, post-operative pain, or pain following dental procedures. Limiting the quantity to less than 325 milligrams of acetaminophen per tablet, capsule, or other dosage unit will reduce the risk of inadvertent overdose, which can lead to liver failure, liver transplant and death, according to the Food and Drug Administration.
Inadvertent overdose from combination drugs containing acetaminophen accounts for nearly half of all cases of acetaminophen-related liver failure in the United States. The FDA also cited the fact that no available data showed that taking more than the recommended dose provided benefits that outweighed the added risks. Read the full story here:
FDA: Limit high-dose acetaminophen
Even Tylenol, if you take enough, can be harmful. Always take medications pursuant to how they are prescribed or, if over the counter, in accordance with the recommended dosage on the package.
If you or anyone in your family has suffered serious side effects or damages from a medication error you should seek legal investigation immediately. Crandall & Pera Law is available to help answer your questions and guide you in determining your next steps.