Page 14 - April 2023

Reading the Labels

Breaking the Painkiller Habit:

The Deadly Dangers of Acetaminophen Misuse

Acetaminophen is one of the most using this drug irresponsibly. With the

commonly used painkillers in the world, prevalence of acetaminophen use, its
found in a variety of over-the-counter and users must be aware of its potential risks
prescription medications. While it can be and use it only as it is directed.

effective at managing pain and reducing
fever, it’s important to understand According to the Consumer Healthcare

the potential dangers of misusing this Products Association, around 23
medication. Reading the label and percent of U.S. adults (52 million
following the directions is the easiest way Americans) use some medication

to avoid disaster. containing acetaminophen weekly. It is
generally considered safe when taken as

As the cold and flu season is coming recommended. However, there can be a
to a quick close, many of us are still small margin between what is viewed as
getting sick and trying all sorts of a safe and lethal dose.

remedies to restore our health. One of
the fastest and easiest solutions is taking The overarching risk of acetaminophen

medicine. Acetaminophen is the active use is the potential for liver damage.
ingredient in common over-the-counter Because of how frequently it is in
medication to relieve pain or reduce over-the-counter medications, it can

fever. It treats common conditions such be relatively easy to take more than
as muscle aches, headaches, arthritis, the recommended dose accidentally.

toothaches, backaches, menstrual pain With more than 100,000 instances per
and sore throat. Acetaminophen is year, overdose from acetaminophen
found in many popular medications is the leading cause of calls to poison

such as Tylenol, Dayquil/Nyquil, Zicam, control centers in the United States. It’s
and Alka-Seltzer Plus Liquids Gels. even responsible for more than 56,000

Despite its widespread use and easy emergency room visits and an estimated
accessibility, recent studies have raised 458 deaths yearly due to acute liver
concerns about the potential dangers of failure. Over half of all acute liver failure

14 14 myindigosun.com