Tylenol Extra Strength
Tylenol is a registered trademark of McNeil Consumer Healthcare. It contains acetaminophen or paracetamol as it is known in some countries. This is one of the most commonly used pain-killers and fever-reducers. Acetaminophen works by inhibiting the activity of an enzyme called cyclooxygenase and thus decreasing the production of prostaglandins which cause pain and fever. This makes paracetamol one of the first choice medicines in the cases of flu, common cold, headache, muscle pains, menstrual cramps etc. Unlike most of the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, acetaminophen does not have an irritating effect on the stomach mucosa which is, no doubt, an advantage.
Tylenol Extra Strength has a higher dose of acetaminophen (500 mg) which makes it very suitable in the cases of stronger pain or severe cold symptoms. It is available as caplets, rapid release gels and a liquid. Gel tablets and liquid formulations are believed to bring faster relief compared to the traditional tablet forms.
Precautions when taking Tylenol Extra Strength:
Have in mind that Tylenol Extra Strength has a higher dose of acetaminophen. The recommended dose of Tylenol Extra Strength is 2 tablets or 2 tablespoons of the liquid every 6 hours. You should not exceed the maximum daily dose of 6 tablets or 6 tablespoons as there is a serious risk of acute liver failure. Do not take other medicines containing acetaminophen. Always read the labels. Be very careful as acetaminophen is also called paracetamol in some countries. Acetaminophen is a part of many prescribed or OTC cold medicines so be careful when taking other medicines.
Do not take Tylenol Extra Strength if you are allergic to acetaminophen (or paracetamol) or any of the other substances of Tylenol Extra Strength.
Alcohol should be avoided during the treatment with Tylenol. However, occasional moderate consumption is not likely to cause harm in otherwise healthy individuals. Tylenol Extra Strength should be prescribed with great caution to people with a history of chronic alcohol use because of the risk of liver damaging.
In case you are suffering from liver or kidney disease, other serious medical condition or you are taking some prescription or over-the-counter medicines, herbs or dietary supplements, consult with your doctor before taking Tylenol.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not use Tylenol without consulting their healthcare provider.
In case your symptoms last for more than 10 days or you have fever for more than 3 days, you should discontinue the use of Tylenol and consult a healthcare provider. The same is valid if new symptoms occur or if your condition worsens in spite of the treatment.
