Hidden acetaminophen in cold remedies may pose risk

AORN Journal,  March, 2006  

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Over-the-counter (OTC) cold preparations containing acetaminophen have the potential to cause liver damage if they are overused, according to a Jan 10, 2006, news release from the University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati. Many cold and cough preparations contain acetaminophen, and their use should be limited to no more than five days.

The American Association of Poison Control Centers reported more than 113,800 cases of poisoning that involved acetaminophen alone or acetaminophen-containing products in 2005. There also were 52 deaths directly related to use or abuse of acetaminophen alone.

Acetaminophen is a common ingredient in both prescription and OTC preparations. It is used as both an analgesic and a fever reducer, but its use for more than five consecutive days may cause Liver damage. Acetaminophen poisoning is identified as the most common cause of drug-induced acute Liver injury. People taking medications that contain acetaminophen also should avoid ingesting alcohol, as the risk of liver damage is increased in the presence of alcohol

Common symptoms of liver damage include

* yellowing of the eyes,

* marked abdominal pain, and

* a sudden increase in abdominal size.

If any of these symptoms occur, a patient should discontinue use of the medication and contact his or her physician immediately. Patients need to be made aware of the potential problems with products containing acetaminophen and be educated to avoid overuse of the medication.

Take Care When Taking Over-the-Counter Cold Remedies (news release, Cincinnati: University of Cincinnati, Jan 10, 2006) http://www.uc.edu/news/NR.asp?id=3496 (accessed 23 Jan 2006).

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