As we know that Acetaminophen, is a fever reducer and pain reliever too. There are many benefits associated with the medicine, but you should also explore the side effects related to the medicine. Acetaminophen comes with side effects that can be mild to severe. When taken in excess amounts, the side effects of Acetaminophen can be fatal too. Let us explore the side effects of Acetaminophen so that you know how to use your medicine safely and get maximum benefits from your drug.
For some unwanted side effects you need immediate medical attention, so knowing about the side effects can help you understand your drug in detail.
Major Side effects
If you see some of the major and severe side effects while using Acetaminophen as listed below, contact your medical help immediately.
- Tarry stools, black or bloody stools
- Red spots on your skin
- Hives, itching or skin rash
- Fever with chills and fever without chills
- Pain in side or in lower back (sharp or severe pain)
- Sore throat
- Sore ulcers
- Unusual bruising or bleeding
- Sudden decrease in urination
- Unusual weakness or tiredness
- Yellow skin or eyes
- Cloudy or bloody urine
Over dose symptoms
These symptoms can occur as a result of overdose of Acetaminophen, cases ask for medical help immediately.
- Increased sweating
- Vomiting or nausea
- Diarrhea
- Appetite loss
- Stomach pain or cramps
- Pain, tenderness or swelling in upper stomach area or abdomen
Some common side effects of Acetaminophen are
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Nausea
- Pain in injection site or reaction in injection site.
Hepatic
Increased – aspartate aminotransferase- common side effect
Increased – hepatic transaminases- rare side effect
Liver failure
Gastrointestinal
Nausea and Vomiting
Constipation, enlarged abdomen, diarrhea, dyspepsia and constipation
Dry mouth
Hypersensitivity
Hypersensitive reactions and Anaphylaxis
Hematologic
Postoperative hemorrhage – common side effect
Thrombocytopenia, neutropenia and leucopenia- Very rare effects
Dermatologic
Pruritus and rash- common
Skin reactions (severe) – rare
Lyell syndrome, Pemphigoid reaction and Pustular rash- very rare
Respiratory
Dyspnea, hypoxia, coughing, pleural effusion, wheezing, stridor, breath sounds (abnormal), pulmonary edema
Some side effects do not need medical attention and they go away with time, but serious side effects needs medical attention. Do not consume alcohol while you are on Acetaminophen as it can lead to serious liver problems.
Speak to your doctor about the related side effects and how Acetaminophen is going to work for you. If you are using herbal supplements, vitamins or other products, you should let your doctor know as using Acetaminophen with these products can also lead to unwanted side effects. You doctor will be able to tell you about the contents present in supplements or other products you are taking and whether they can cause any serious effects when consumed with Acetaminophen.
Acetaminophen is a useful medicine if used as prescribed by the doctor. Do not ignore if you notice any unusual signs as they can be the side effects of Acetaminophen. You can treat these side effects, if you consult your doctor immediately.