How to Mix Acetaminophen & Aspirin
Acetaminophen and aspirin, although two different drugs indicated for different conditions, can be taken together to treat pain and inflammation. Acetaminophen, an over-the-counter pain reliever, treats fevers and body pain and can be found in the brand name Tylenol. Aspirin reduces inflammation and treats pain by reducing a substance similar to a hormone in your body that causes initial pain. Aspirin can be found in brand names Bayer and St. Joseph. These drugs are not harmful when taken together and can serve to support each other in the treatment of inflammation, fever, and pain.
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Instructions
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Purchase over-the-counter acetaminophen and aspirin tablets. Popular brands that produce these drugs are Bayer, for Aspirin, and Tylenol. You also have the option of purchasing tablets that already combine these two drugs, such as Excedrin Extra Strength, Excedrin Migraine and Vanquish.
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Read carefully the suggested dosage on the back of the bottle. Do not take more than the amount prescribed for each drug, as an overdose of either acetaminophen or aspirin can be dangerous. Do not take more than 8 tablets in a 24 hour period.
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Take your acetaminophen and aspirin tablets at the same time with a glass of water. This makes it easier to keep track of when you have taken your pills, and thus avoid an overdose. Likewise, it will prove more effective for overall pain relief.
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Tips & Warnings
If you are having any kind of surgery during which you will undergo general anesthetic, alert your doctor to the drugs that you are taking.
Do not overdose on either acetaminophen or aspirin, as an overdose of aspirin can cause serious harm to your liver.
Do not drink alcohol while you are on this medication, as it is potentially harmful to your liver.
Do not take this medication if you are pregnant without first consulting your physician. Likewise, if you are nursing a child, consult your doctor before taking acetaminophen or aspirin.
Never give aspirin to a child under the age of twelve or a child or teenager who has a fever or flu symptoms, as this could result in a potentially fatal condition called Reye's Syndrome.
Stop taking acetaminophen and aspirin tablets if you experience any kind of allergic reactions and immediately consult your physician.
References
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