Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. Children may also mistake acetaminophen for candy or juice and accidentally ingest it. Plus, it’s possible to measure the liquid form of acetaminophen incorrectly and give too large of a dose. For example, a parent may give their child a dose of acetaminophen without realizing that the babysitter recently did the same. Other factors can also increase the chance of overdose in children.

In childrenĬhildren may also unintentionally take more acetaminophen than recommended by taking too much at once or taking more than one product with acetaminophen. Together, acetaminophen and alcohol increase the chance of overdose and liver damage.

You should talk to a healthcare provider before taking acetaminophen if you have three or more alcoholic drinks every day. For a list of common medicines that contain acetaminophen, visit. Poison Control recommends that you tell your healthcare provider about all prescription and OTC medicines that you’re taking to make sure that you aren’t taking too much acetaminophen. Taking both drugs in the same day may lead to unintentionally taking more than the maximum daily dose. However, many cold medications also have acetaminophen. If you get sick, you may reach for an OTC cold medicine. For example, you may take a daily prescription medicine that contains acetaminophen. People can also take several drugs that contain acetaminophen without even knowing it.

using multiple medicines that contain acetaminophen at the same time.

Some common reasons that people may accidentally take more than the recommended daily dose of acetaminophen include: The overwhelming majority of the time, acetaminophen is taken safely and according to the directions. Causes of acetaminophen overdose In adults

Antidote for acetaminophen toxicity