Quiz: 8 Facts About Acetaminophen

Acetaminophen is a nonopioid medication used to relieve mild to moderate pain and reduce fever. It does not reduce inflammation — that’s what NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, aspirin) are better suited for. Acetaminophen is available both over-the-counter (OTC) and by prescription. 

Alcohol increases how much acetaminophen the liver converts into toxic by-products, which can accumulate and damage the liver. People who consume three or more alcoholic drinks per day should be cautious or avoid acetaminophen altogether. 

Experts often recommend that adults 65 and older consume no more than 3,000 mg per day. Taking more than 4,000 mg in 24 hours can lead to severe liver damage, making careful dosing especially important for older adults. 

A 2024 study found that people over age 65 who used acetaminophen regularly had a higher risk of peptic ulcer bleeding and lower GI bleeding. Although not commonly associated with ulcers, like NSAIDs are, acetaminophen can still pose bleeding risks.