FDA to Review Acetaminophen Changes
The FDA is left to wonder what to do about acetaminophen after its panel urged it to reconsider dosing instructions, according to an
article posted on the Washington Post's web site.
While acetaminophen is generally safe and effective, it can cause liver failure in excess doses. In fact, acetaminophen overdoses are the leading cause of liver damage in the United States. The FDA estimates that more than 400 people die each year from overdoses and thousands more are hospitalized.
Because public education hasn't resolved the problem, the panel recommended reducing the highest dose of acetaminophen allowed in over-the-counter medications. The drug is found in so many products that people often don't realize they are getting doses that could exceed the safe levels. The panel even narrowly recommended pulling Vicodin, Percocet and similar products that combine acetaminophen with powerful narcotics from the market altogether.
While the FDA often follows the advice of its advisory panels, it's not obligated to do so. For now, we'll have to wait and see what the FDA decides to do.
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