The Effects of Tylenol
Tylenol, a brand name for acetaminophen, is an analgesic that is frequently chosen by doctors because it does not have many interactions or side effects. Tylenol is used for many types of pain without the gastrointestinal problems that have been associated with anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen. Tylenol cannot, however, reduce inflammation.
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Pain relief
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Tylenol is a pain reliever that acts without the drowsy effect of prescription painkillers. Some of the uses include helping back pain, sprains, strains, muscle aches, toothaches and arthritic pain. Tylenol is often used to relieve the aches during colds and flu. It can also help with cramping before and during menstrual periods.
Fever Reduction
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One effect that Tylenol has on the body is in reducing fever. This is especially useful in children since aspirin, the other common fever-reducer, has been linked to Reye's Syndrome. This serious and sometimes fatal disease has been shown to occur in those with flu, colds, chicken pox and similar illnesses who take aspirin and salicylates while ill.
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Headache Stopper
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There are many types of headaches. Tylenol has not shown to be much help for migraines, which can be debilitating and require prescription medication. Tylenol does help the pain of other types of headaches, including tension, cluster and muscular headaches. It can also help with the pain of sinus headaches.
Side Effects
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While Tylenol is considered one of the safest over-the-counter medications for short-term use and allergic reaction is rare, it is not completely without side effects. Long-term use of more than 10 days of Tylenol, or taking more than the recommended dose short term, has been linked to liver problems. Drinking alcohol while taking Tylenol can increase the risk of liver failure. Tylenol should also be used with caution by pregnant and nursing women, after the approval of a health care professional.
Versions
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Tylenol is sold in various strengths and versions. The Infant (160 mg), Children's (160 mg), Regular strength (325 mg) and Extra Strength (500 mg) contain only acetaminophen. Tylenol 8 Hour and Tylenol Arthritis contain acetaminophen (650 mg) in a time-release formula to last longer. There are also a number of Tylenol over-the-counter medications that contain additional ingredients, like Tylenol Allergy Multi-Symptom, Tylenol Sinus Congestion and Tylenol PM. Tylenol versions are available in pills, capsules, liquids, chewables and meltaways.
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