What is Tylenol used for?

Tylenol contains acetaminophen (paracetamol outside the US), a common analgesic and fever reducer. It is available in many forms—tablets, caplets, chewables, liquids, suppositories, and orally disintegrating tablets—in both brand-name and generic products.

Common uses

  • Relief of minor aches and pains from:
    • Colds or sore throat
    • Headache or backache
    • Minor arthritis pain
    • Toothache or muscle ache
    • Premenstrual and menstrual cramps
  • Reduction of fever

Side effects

When taken as directed, Tylenol is generally well tolerated. Mild side effects may include nausea or headache. Serious reactions are rare but require prompt medical attention:

  • Allergic reactions (rash, hives, swelling of face or throat, difficulty breathing)
  • Liver injury from overdose (maximum 4,000 mg per day in most adults). Symptoms include dark urine, fatigue, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, or jaundice.

Always seek medical advice for any unexpected symptoms. Report adverse events to FDA MedWatch at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1‑800‑FDA‑1088.

NSAID status

Acetaminophen is not an NSAID. It relieves pain by raising the body’s pain threshold and reduces fever by acting on the heat‑regulating center of the brain, rather than blocking COX enzymes as NSAIDs do.

How to take Tylenol

Dosing depends on age, weight (for children), formulation, and liver health. Follow package directions or your healthcare provider’s instructions. Avoid taking multiple acetaminophen‑containing products simultaneously. If pain persists beyond 10 days or fever beyond 3 days, discontinue use and consult a provider.

Use with warfarin

Tylenol is preferred over NSAIDs for patients on warfarin, but doses above 2,000 mg per day may increase INR. If you need more than 2,000 mg daily, monitor INR more frequently and inform your healthcare team of all medications.

Storage

Keep in the original container, tightly closed, out of children’s reach. Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture. In case of suspected overdose, call Poison Control at 1‑800‑222‑1222 or 911 for emergencies.

Sources

  • TYLENOL Regular Strength [package insert], Johnson & Johnson Consumer Inc., DailyMed.
  • TYLENOL Extra Strength [package insert], Johnson & Johnson Consumer Inc., DailyMed.
  • Gerriets V, Anderson J, Patel P, et al. Acetaminophen. StatPearls. Jan 11, 2024.