Always read the product label and follow the instructions. Acet (Acetaminophen) is used in many non-prescription and prescription medications, including products for cough and cold, pain relief, and headache pain.
Take the smallest amount of medication that works for you. Never take more than the maximum daily dose.
Take only one product that contains Acet (Acetaminophen) at a time. Acet (Acetaminophen) is in many products and you could accidentally take too much if you're using more than one product at the same time.
Acet (Acetaminophen) can be used by all age groups in recommended doses.
Children (general): The dose of Acet (Acetaminophen) for children is based on body size. Usually, it is calculated as 10 mg to 15 mg per kilogram of body weight, every 4 to 6 hours. No more than 65 mg/kg should be given in a 24-hour period. Children should not take more than 5 doses in 24 hours unless advised by a doctor. For children under 6 months of age, consult a doctor.
Children's liquid medications should be given using a calibrated dosing device, such as an oral syringe. This ensures that you are giving your child the right amount. Some formulations of liquid Acet (Acetaminophen) contain different concentrations of Acet (Acetaminophen). Pay careful attention to the concentration on the label and the calculated dose volume.
Adults: The dose of Acet (Acetaminophen) for adults is 325 mg to 650 mg every 4 to 6 hours. Do not take more than 4,000 mg in a 24-hour period. If you are taking the extended-release caplets, the recommended dose for adults and children over 12 years is 1300 mg taken every 8 hours.
Acet (Acetaminophen) products available without a prescription should not be used for longer than 5 days in a row for pain or 3 days in a row for fever. If you consume 3 or more alcoholic drinks in a day, do not take Acet (Acetaminophen) products, as your risk of liver damage is increased.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without talking to your doctor. Always take Acet (Acetaminophen) exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
Acet (Acetaminophen) is generally used as needed for pain or fever, except in the case of osteoarthritis and some other chronic conditions, when it is often taken on a regular basis in order to keep pain under control. In these circumstances, if you miss a dose of this medicine and you remember within an hour or so of the missed dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if you do not remember until it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Store Acet (Acetaminophen) at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.
Do not dispose of medications in wastewater (e.g. down the sink or in the toilet) or in household garbage. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medications that are no longer needed or have expired.
