Fibromyalgia and Acetaminophen

Acetaminophen is a widely-used over-the-counter drug proven safe and effective treatment for pain and fever. The exact mechanism of this drug is unknown. It is thought to relieve pain by increasing the the pain threshold. Acetaminophen reduces fever through its action on the hypothalamus, the part of the brain that regulates the body temperature.

Acetaminophen is among the non-narcotic analgesics or pain relievers that may help relieve fibromyalgia symptoms. Non-narcotic analgesics help relieve mild to moderate pain without producing loss of consciousness. Many of these medications are sold over-the-counter. Acetaminophen can provide temporary relieve of pain and stiffness caused by fibromyalgia. It is also used for treating various conditions that cause pain and fever.

While they help in controlling symptoms, analgesics often do not provide effective long-term pain relief.

Read more details about Acetaminophen.

The usual oral dose of acetaminophen is 325 to 650mg every four to 6 hours, with a maximum daily dose of 4000-mg. Doses exceeding 4 grams per day, used for prolonged periods have been linked to liver damage.

Acetaminophen must be taken as directed by the physician. In case you miss a dose, and you are supposed to take it regularly, take it as soon as you remember it. However, if several hours have passed, do not double the dose unless advised by your doctor. Acetaminophen can be taken with or without food .

What are the precautions when taking this medicine?

• Avoid other sources of acetaminophen. An overdose may cause dangerous problems.

• Check medicines with healthcare provider. This medicine may not mix well with other medicines.

• Avoid or limit alcohol intake (includes wine, beer, and liquor) to less than 3 drinks a day. Drinking too much alcohol may increase the risk of liver disease.

• If you have PKU, talk with healthcare provider. Some products do contain phenylalanine.

• Be careful if you have G6PD deficiency. Anemia may occur.

• Tell healthcare provider if you are pregnant or plan on getting pregnant.

What are some possible side effects of this medicine?

• Liver damage can rarely occur.

Reasons to call healthcare provider immediately

• If you suspect an overdose, call your local poison control center or emergency department immediately.

• Signs of a life-threatening reaction. These include wheezing; chest tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; fits; or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat.

• Significant change in thinking clearly and logically.

• Severe belly pain.

• Severe nausea or vomiting.

• Yellow skin or eyes.

• Not able to eat.

• Feeling extremely tired or weak.

• Any rash.

• No improvement in condition or feeling worse.

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