Can you believe that every year Tylenol sends 78,000 Americans to the emergency room? In fact, the active ingredient in this seemingly harmless medicine, acetaminophen, is the deadliest over the the counter pain reliever in the United States. According to the American Association of Poison Control Centers, “from 2001 to 2010, annual acetaminophen-related deaths amounted to about twice the number attributed to all other over-the-counter pain relievers combined.”
The problem has been so serious that Johnson & Johnson helped fund an antidote that has saved the lives of many. They’ve also setup a website, http://www.getreliefresponsibly.com/, to educate the public about the risks and proper use of acetaminophen-containing drugs. It’s worth heading over there to educate yourself on the issue, but we’ll also provide you with some need-to-know facts.
If you aren’t already aware, acetaminophen has the potential to cause liver damage. In fact, it is the country’s leading cause of acute liver failure.
For people taking Tylenol as recommended, especially without combining with alcohol, there is little risk. However, very few people are aware of the serious risk that a “relatively small overdose can kill you.”
The difference between a dangerous dose and a safe dose is quite small. According to Harvard Health, as little as 5 grams of acetaminophen can cause liver damage – where as the safe daily limit is only 4 grams. If taken over a few days, the additional dosing can cause even more severe damage.
While credit should be given to Tylenol for recently creating an antidote and an educational website, professionals still condemn the company that produces the pain reliever. ProPublica, who last year released an illuminating exposé on Tylenol, says that McNeil (Tylenol’s manufacturer) “repeatedly fought against safety warnings, dosage restrictions and other measures meant to safeguard users of the drug.” That was even after McNeil became aware of the high number of accidental overdoses.
Those who took Tylenol and were diagnosed with liver failure have the right to be compensated for their injuries, pain, and medical bills. If you are one of these people, then CLICK HERE to receive a free, no obligation case review.
Recall issued for acetaminophen-containing drug.
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