Caring for Your Child Who Took Too Much Acetaminophen

Accidentally taking acetaminophen usually does not have serious effects in kids. However, it is very important to make sure children use this and other medicines safely.

Acetaminophen is a common over-the-counter medicine for fever and pain. When taken in the right dose, acetaminophen is usually very safe for kids. Sometimes, though, a child might take an unknown amount of acetaminophen that has been left out or stored in a bottle with a loose cap. Occasionally, a child is accidentally given an incorrect dose by a well-meaning caretaker. If a child takes a high enough overdose of acetaminophen, it can cause permanent damage to the liver.

Most of the time the amount of acetaminophen a child may have taken is not known. The health care provider ordered a blood test to measure your child's level of acetaminophen. That blood test showed that the amount of acetaminophen taken did not cause a dangerous level in your child's bloodstream.

Luckily, your child was not harmed by taking too much acetaminophen. This is a good time to take steps toward improving medication safety in your home.

• Your child can have a normal diet and return to normal activity.

• Many kids can safely use acetaminophen again within 4–6 hours after the last exposure. Talk to your health care provider about when your child can use acetaminophen again safely.

• Reduce the chance of medication overdose:

  • Keep acetaminophen, and all medicines, in a locked cabinet, out of the reach of children. Even products like mouthwash should be kept in a locked cabinet.

  • Put medicines away after giving a dose.

  • Keep purses and handbags that might contain medicines away from kids.

  • Make sure the lids to all medicines are tightly closed.

  • Never tell your kids that medicine "tastes like candy."

  • Always keep medicines in their original containers.

  • Try to be aware of how many pills are left in a bottle.

  • Be aware of the medications you have in your home.

• Always read medicine labels before giving a dose to your child. Make sure you know the right dose and strength to use for your child's age.

• Many cold medicines and some pain medicines contain acetaminophen. Know the ingredients of the medications you use so you only give one containing acetaminophen at a time.

Your child:

• Complains of stomach pain.

• Is vomiting.

Keep the phone number for Poison Control handy. Calling 1-800-222-1222 anywhere in the country will connect you to the closest center.