Acetaminophen: Uses, Side Effects, and Drug Interactions

# Acetaminophen Overview Acetaminophen is a common medicine used to reduce fever and relieve pain like headaches, muscle aches, and minor arthritis pain. You can find it in many over-the-counter products at drugstores, and it works by helping your body lower its temperature and reduce the feeling of pain. Many people use acetaminophen safely every day when they follow the directions on the bottle. However, it's important to use acetaminophen carefully to stay safe. Never take more than the recommended dose, and be careful because acetaminophen is found in many different products—if you take multiple medicines, you might accidentally get too much of it, which can damage your liver. Don't use acetaminophen if you're allergic to it, and check with your doctor before using it if you have liver problems or drink alcohol regularly. Keep the medicine in a safe place away from children, and if you're pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before taking it.