"The New York Times," in its May 2010 Health Guide, noted that an acetaminophen, or Tylenol, overdose is one of the most common type of poisonings worldwide. People often feel that because acetaminophen is available over the counter and widely used, that it is safe. However, it can be lethal in large doses.
Causes
A patient may overdose on acetaminophen for several reasons. Acetaminophen is metabolized for the most part by the liver. Too much acetaminophen can overpower normal liver function. If there is already damage to the liver due to infection, alcohol abuse or other illness, a person has a greater susceptibility to an acetaminophen overdose. People with liver illnesses or people who habitually consume large amounts of alcohol should use great caution when taking acetaminophen or products containing acetaminophen. The Food and Drug Administration recommends not consuming more than three alcoholic beverages per day while taking acetaminophen.
Symptoms
Symptoms of a Tylenol overdose may take as many as 12 to 24 hours to appear. According to the National Institutes of Health, symptoms can be mild such as nausea, sweating, upset stomach and diarrhea. However, they may progress to include convulsions, irritability, coma, skin yellowing, vomiting and, if left untreated, death.
When to Seek Help
If acetaminophen poisoning is suspected, the National Center for Poison Control can be called 24 hours a day. Poison Control is manned by toxicology experts who can answer any questions and tell someone when to seek emergency help. If the person suspected of overdose is unconscious, semiconscious or not breathing, call 911 immediately. If a person is unsure of the type or amount of medication taken, also call for medical attention right away. Seek medical help if a child took Tylenol without adult supervision and an overdose is suspected.
Exams and Tests
According to the National Institutes of Health, physicians will attempt to determine the time and amount of acetaminophen taken. Bringing all medications bottles, will help the doctor to determine the maximum amounts taken. The physician will also look for signs and symptoms of overdose such as yellowing of skin, also known as jaundice. Blood levels will be drawn and the level of acetaminophen will aid in determining whether a toxic dose was ingested. A physician may periodically order follow up labwork to determine whether the treatment is effective.
Treatment
Medline Plus, a publication of the National Institutes of Health, states that treatment involves measuring and monitoring patients vital signs, including pulse, breathing, blood pressure and temperature. Patients may receive medicines to treat the symptoms, such as activated charcoal, laxatives and N-acetylcysteine, or NAC, which is the antidote to acetaminophen overdose.
References
- The Food and Drug Administration: Acetaminophen and Liver Injury: Q and A for Consumers
- National Institutes of Health: National Library of Health: Treatment of Acetaminophen Overdose
- "The New York Times"; Health Guide: Acetminophen Overdose; May 4, 2010
- American Journal of Health System Pharmacy: Treatment of Acetaminophen Overdose
- National Institutes of Health Medline Plus: Acetaminophen Overdose
