Acetaminophen

Acetaminophen is the most common drug ingredient in the United States. It’s found in more than 600 different medicines, including prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers, fever reducers, and sleep aids as well as cough, cold, and allergy medicines. Each week, approximately 23 percent of U.S. adults — or 52 million consumers — use an acetaminophen-containing medicine.

Our Position

Acetaminophen is a safe OTC analgesic staple that's widely used by adults and children when following recommended dosage guidelines. Lawmakers should oppose restrictions to access for either age group, as drug regulatory entities already actively monitor research and update consumer protections accordingly to allow availability alongside continued evidence-based education. Excessive limits would deprive the public of an efficacious, affordable longtime remedy.

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Safe Use of Acetaminophen

Safe use of acetaminophen is a top priority for manufacturers of OTC medicines. Manufacturers work closely with FDA, healthcare provider groups, pharmacist groups, and consumer health advocates to drive safe and responsible use of acetaminophen.

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FDA Annual Forecast

The Annual Forecast for Planned Monograph Activities describes planned monograph activities that FDA intends to address over the ensuing three years.

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Critical Ingredients & Chemicals

Federal oversight by the FDA ensures that ingredients and chemical additives used in vital healthcare products available to consumers, like nonprescription drugs, dietary supplements, and medical devices, routinely undergo the most rigorous safety evaluations.

Hispanic woman measuring out medicine in front of a medicine cabinet
Safe Use of Acetaminophen

Safe use of acetaminophen is a top priority for manufacturers of OTC medicines. Manufacturers work closely with FDA, healthcare provider groups, pharmacist groups, and consumer health advocates to drive safe and responsible use of acetaminophen.

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FAQs

FAQs About Acetaminophen and Other Oral OTC Pain Relievers and Fever Reducers

Find frequently asked questions about OTC oral pain relievers and fever reducers including acetaminophen, aspirin, ibuprofen, ketoprofen, and naproxen sodium.

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Background Summary: Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) and Oligohydramnios

FDA Announcement of a proposed safety-based Administrative Order to update the pregnancy warning labeling for NSAID-containing drug products.

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Acetaminophen in the States

Acetaminophen is a safe OTC analgesic that's widely used by adults and children when following recommended dosage guidelines. Lawmakers should oppose restrictions to access for either age group, as drug regulatory entities already actively monitor research and update consumer protections.

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Health In Hand Website

The Health In Hand Foundation’s mobile-friendly website, HealthInHand.org, provides consumers with easily accessible information and guidance on how to safely use, store, and dispose of self-care products.

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Know Your Dose

Know Your Dose (KYD) educates patients and consumers about the safe and effective use of acetaminophen, the most commonly used drug ingredient in the United States.

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Related Program

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Know Your Dose educates patients and consumers about the safe and effective use of acetaminophen, the most commonly used drug ingredient in the United States.

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