Accidental poisonings from acetaminophen (Tylenol) are rising. Acetaminophen is one of the safest painkillers when taken in the correct dose, but it can cause serious—even fatal—liver damage when dosing directions aren't followed. Adults should take no more than 4,000 milligrams (mg) of acetaminophen a day (the equivalent of eight extra-strength Tylenol pills). It's easy to exceed the maximum when you're feeling under the weather and perhaps using multiple products with acetaminophen without realizing it.
Example: 1,000 mg of acetaminophen every six hours from Tylenol Cold & Flu Severe, 500 mg per dose from Excedrin and another 1,000 mg from Nyquil Cold/Flu at bedtime puts you well above the 4,000 mg/day limit.
Caution: Some prescription drugs contain acetaminophen.
Examples: Percocet contains 325 mg per pill...Vicodin ES contains 750 mg.
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