Cold and flu season has returned like clockwork. As you hit the over-the-counter aisle, rummage through your medicine cabinet at home, and prepare to combat your family’s runny noses and sore throats, remember to double check medicine labels so you don’t accidentally double up on medicines containing acetaminophen. Research published this year shows that consumers don’t always know the potential risks of double dosing on medicine or that taking two medicines with the same ingredient could be harmful. And acetaminophen is a common drug ingredient—more than 50 million Americans use it weekly to treat pain, fever, and cold and flu symptoms. It’s safe and effective when used as directed, but taking more than directed is an overdose and can lead to liver damage.
So double check; don’t double up on acetaminophen this cold and flu season. Learn more at KnowYourDose.org.