This NYT article gives the full story on the probable upcoming ban by the FDA of two of the most popular painkiller prescriptions in the world, Percocet and Vicodin, because the the acetaminophen (Tylenol) in the formulas of both drugs destroys liver function. The solution to the problem, which causes significant numbers of deaths, is to administer the painkiller and the acetaminophen separately, so the dose of acetaminophen can be kept at a safe level even if more narcotic is needed.
WNL selected this article out of the multitude offering the headline because of the excellent explanation of both the medical problem and the resistance to making the change from drug manufacturers. It also addresses consumer concerns (Can I still buy a big bottle of acetaminophen at Costco?), and describes new protections for over-the-counter acetaminophen combinations for children.
Even if these recommendations should fail to be enacted by the FDA, this information is a very valuable alert for the multitudes of us who consume Tylenol/acetaminophen, either by itself or in combination with a painkiller or cold medicine, regarding liver toxicity at relatively low doses.
Bottom line: Always be alert for the presence of acetaminophen in OTC and prescription medications, both for adults and children, and, if you can't buy a version without acetaminophen, make sure to keep the daily dosage well below the maximum on the label.
EHow's health editor has 6 steps to avoiding acetaminophen overdose/poisoning at home.
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WNL selected this article out of the multitude offering the headline because of the excellent explanation of both the medical problem and the resistance to making the change from drug manufacturers. It also addresses consumer concerns (Can I still buy a big bottle of acetaminophen at Costco?), and describes new protections for over-the-counter acetaminophen combinations for children.
Even if these recommendations should fail to be enacted by the FDA, this information is a very valuable alert for the multitudes of us who consume Tylenol/acetaminophen, either by itself or in combination with a painkiller or cold medicine, regarding liver toxicity at relatively low doses.
Bottom line: Always be alert for the presence of acetaminophen in OTC and prescription medications, both for adults and children, and, if you can't buy a version without acetaminophen, make sure to keep the daily dosage well below the maximum on the label. EHow's health editor has 6 steps to avoiding acetaminophen overdose/poisoning at home.