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Most of the public would not consider acetaminophen, the active ingredient in Tylenol, to be particularly dangerous. When taken at recommended dosage, acetaminophen is considered safe and used by millions daily. However, even a small overdose can be fatal, especially in patients with liver disease. Since it is thought by the public to be a benign over-the-counter drug, patients may think that taking more than directed is innocuous. Also, they may not understand dosing directions. Patient education is crucial; in one study 32% of parents gave their children incorrect doses of acetaminophen after an ED visit. According to a paper in ProPublica, 150 deaths per year are attributable to acetaminophen, and they suggest the FDA should take additional steps to protect consumers. The FDA has mandated a "black box warning" on prescription drugs that contain acetaminophen, stating overdose may lead to liver transplant or death (although this is not found on the over-the-counter label). |