In chronic overdose (i.e., multiple supratherapeutic doses), the minimum toxic threshold is 150 to 175 mg/kg over two to four days. In children less than 12, the minimum toxic dose for an acute ingestion ranges from 120 to 150 mg/kg.

In many of these cases, patients took more than one acetaminophen-containing product but did not realize that acetaminophen was in more than one of the medications that they took. Nearly half of acetaminophen overdose cases were due to unintentional overdose. Repeated supratherapeutic doses can also cause hepatotoxicity. Types of exposures include exploratory ingestions in young children, intentional ingestions (e.g., teen suicide attempts), inappropriate therapeutic dosing, and iatrogenic IV overdose.

Acetaminophen toxicity is one of the more common overdoses reported to poison centers and is the most common cause of acute liver failure in the United States. At recommended doses, it is considered safe and well tolerated.ĭespite this overall safety, acetaminophen is a dose-dependent hepatotoxin. Acetaminophen is available in a number of preparations including liquid formulation (160 mg / 5 ml), pills or capsules that range from 80 to 650 mg / tab, and immediate release suppositories. In addition, hydrocodone/acetaminophen was the most commonly dispensed medication in 2003 with 89 million prescriptions.

It is found in more than 600 medications, including sleep aids and cough, cold, and allergy medicines. Acetaminophen, or Tylenol, is a commonly used antipyretic and analgesic and is the most common drug ingredient in the United States.

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