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Evidence Suggests that Even Short-Term Normal Doses of Tylenol Can Cause Liver Damage


February 09, 2011

A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association indicates that some healthy adults who took the normal dose of Tylenol (Generic: "Acetaminophen") for only two weeks suffered liver damage. Participants in the study were instructed to take Tylenol in accordance with recommended indications on the label. They took 4 grams of Tylenol per day, which is the equivalent of eight extra-strength Tylenol.

The study participants were given either Tylenol, Tylenol in combination with an opioid or a placebo. Almost forty percent of those taking Tylenol or Tylenol combined with the opioid displayed abnormal liver test results which are indicative of liver damage. Participants who took the placebo showed no indications of abnormal liver results. This study provides evidence that even a normal dose of Tylenol over a short period of time can be sufficient to cause liver damage. If you have suffered serious liver damage or liver failure as a result of taking Tylenol, you may be entitled to compensation. Montlick and Associates, Attorneys at Law, represents those who suffer serious injuries resulting from dangerous drugs, including Tylenol.

The study co-author Dr. Neil Kaplowitz of the University of Southern California has indicated that based on the study, Tylenol users should not exceed a dose of 4 grams per day. Dr. Kaplowitz also indicated that alcohol drinkers should not exceed 2 grams per day (see below- do not take Tylenol while drinking!). This study suggesting that such a small dose of Tylenol can cause liver damage means that many consumers may be at risk even if they did not take Tylenol for an extended period. Other studies have established the impact of Tylenol/Acetaminophen overdose as a serious cause of liver damage including liver failure.

Many consumers believe that taking over-the-counter medications are safe as long as taken as directed. However, even a low dose of Tylenol can create a risk of severe liver damage, liver transplant, and even death. The truth is, even a low dose of acetaminophen can put one at risk for severe liver damage, a liver transplant, and even death. But you would never know it just by reading the warning on the label.

This widely used pain reliever may cause liver failure even at doses that are within the recommended dose. Doctors have reported cases of liver failure among individuals who were taking Tylenol/Acetaminophen while following the dosage rules on the package. From these individuals, doctors have concluded that when acetaminophen is taken by consumers who are not eating (perhaps due to vomiting, fasting, or anorexia), or are drinking alcohol, the pain reliever could become very toxic and the consumer would basically be taking an accidental overdose, possibly resulting in liver failure. Yet, the warning on acetaminophen packaging is weak and does not convey these serious risks.

If you or someone you love has suffered serious injuries as a result of your use of Tylenol/Acetaminophen, such as serious liver injuries, contact Montlick and Associates, Attorneys at Law, for a free consultation to discuss your rights to compensation. Our experienced Georgia Acetaminophen attorneys are available to assist clients throughout all of Georgia and the Southeast, including but not limited to Albany, Athens, Atlanta, Augusta, Columbus, Gainesville, Macon, Marietta, Rome, Roswell, Savannah, Smyrna, Valdosta, Warner Robins and all smaller cities and rural areas in the state. No matter where you are located we are just a phone call away, and we will even come to you. Call us 24 hours a day/7 days a week for your Free Consultation at 1-800-LAW-NEED (1-800-529-6333). You can also visit us online at www.montlick.com and use our Free Case Evaluation Form or 24-hour Live Online Chat.

Category: Personal Injury

Please Note:
All information provided by our blogs is general in nature and should not be relied upon as legal advice. Consult a Montlick attorney for details about your unique situation.