acetaminophen /əset′əmin″əfin/ , an analgesic and antipyretic drug used in many nonprescription pain relievers. It has no antiinflammatory properties. It may be used with other products that do not contain additional acetaminophen. ▪ INDICATIONS: It is often recommended for the treatment of mild to moderate pain and fever. The dose should not exceed 4000 mg/24 hours. ▪ CONTRAINDICATIONS: Known hypersensitivity to acetaminophen prohibits its use. It should not be used in persons with liver disease. ▪ ADVERSE EFFECTS: Among the most serious adverse reactions are anaphylaxis, hepatotoxicity, and hemolytic anemia. Overdosing can result in fatal cyanosis and hepatic necrosis.
