New warning targets acetaminophen users
When taken properly, experts say acetaminophen, otherwise known as Tylenol, is safe, however, new research suggests that in some cases, the common pain reliever may trigger a false alarm
Posted: 07/05/2006 04:39 pm
Most of you have probably used it to relieve headache pain.
But now, there is a new warning about acetaminophen, best known as Tylenol.
Taken properly, experts say the drug is safe.
However, new research suggests that in some cases, the common pain reliever may trigger a false alarm.
When taken at the highest recommended dose, acetaminophen can cause an abnormal result in a common liver blood test.
People taking certain prescription drugs often get the test to monitor their liver function.
"A physician, when they are confronted with this kind of liver abnormality in liver chemistry, is trained to look at drugs that patient is actually taking and stop those that are most suspect for causing this abnormality," explains Researcher Dr. Paul Watkins.
Ironically, acetaminophen is not on that list of suspect drugs, but a number of common prescription drugs are.
In other words, a doctor could take you off an important prescription drug, even if the Tylenol you are taking is causing the abnormal result.
The take home message here: if you are taking acetaminophen, let your doctor know.
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