Tylenol 3, a prescription medication, is given to alleviate moderate to severe pain. Like many other medications, it contains both active and inactive ingredients. Some of these may produce unpleasant reaction in certain people. Learning about the ingredients of this medication can help patients analyze whether it is the right pain reliever for them, and prevent unwanted reactions.
Acetaminophen
One Tylenol 3 pill contains 300 mg of the active ingredient acetaminophen, according to the Tylenol 3 prescribing information. Acetaminophen works by changing the way the body senses pain, and also increases the effects of codeine. Although side effects usually do not occur when someone follows the recommended dosing instruction, serious side effects may occur when someone takes too much of this medication. Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, extreme tiredness, sweating, pain in the upper right section of the stomach, jaundice, flu-like symptoms, unusual bleeding or bruising may be signs of an acetaminophen overdose, according to PubMed Health. People experiencing symptoms of an acetaminophen overdose need immediate medical attention, as the condition can be quite serious. Patients taking Tylenol 3 should avoid taking other products containing acetaminophen and follow the Tylenol 3 dosage instructions carefully to avoid an acetaminophen overdose.
Codeine
Tylenol 3 also contains 30 mg of the active ingredient codeine, according to the Tylenol 3 prescribing information. Codeine also works by changing the way the body senses pain, by blocking pain signals and producing feelings of euphoria. It may produce unpleasant side effects, including dizziness, lightheadedness, nausea, vomiting, constipation, stomach pain, mood changes, drowsiness, headaches and difficulty urinating, according to PubMed Health. This medication is a narcotic, which may be habit-forming and has the potential for abuse. Codeine is the reason Tylenol 3 is classified as a controlled substance.
Filler Ingredients
Powdered cellulose and magnesium stearate are two filler ingredients of Tylenol 3, according to the Tylenol 3 prescribing information. These ingredients are inactive and are only included to make the product easier to handle.
Thickening Agents
Pregelatinized cornstarch and modified cornstarch are two thickening agents of Tylenol 3. These ingredients are also inactive, according to the Tylenol 3 prescribing information. They are included to provide body and increase the effectiveness of the active ingredients.
Preservatives
Sodium metabisulfite is the only preservative used in Tylenol 3, according to the Tylenol 3 prescribing information. It works to prevent decomposition or undesirable chemical changes in the medication.
Considerations
Sodium metabisulfite may cause potentially serious allergic reactions in some people, according to Drugs.com. Those with allergies should report their condition to a doctor or pharmacist before using this medication.
