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Are Acetaminophen and Tylenol the Same Thing?

Reviewed on 1/11/2022
Acetaminophen and Tylenol are the same medication. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is used as an over-the-counter (OTC) pain medication to relieve common aches and pains such as headache, muscle aches, backache, minor arthritis pain, the common cold, toothache, and menstrual cramps. It is also used as a fever reducer.
Acetaminophen and Tylenol are the same medication. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is used as an over-the-counter (OTC) pain medication to relieve common aches and pains such as headache, muscle aches, backache, minor arthritis pain, the common cold, toothache, and menstrual cramps. It is also used as a fever reducer.

Acetaminophen and Tylenol are the same medication. Tylenol is a brand name for acetaminophen (the generic name of the drug). 

Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is an analgesic (pain reliever) used to temporarily relieve minor aches and pains due to headache, muscle aches, backache, minor arthritis pain, the common cold, toothache, and premenstrual and menstrual cramps. It is also used to temporarily reduce fever.

What Are Side Effects of Acetaminophen (Tylenol)?

Side effects of acetaminophen (Tylenol) include:

  • Rash (may itch)
  • Dizziness
  • Hives
  • Skin swelling (angioedema)
  • Disorientation
  • Low levels of red blood cells, white blood cells, and/or platelets
  • Shortness of breath
  • Cough

Serious side effects of acetaminophen (Tylenol) include:

Is It Safe for Pregnancy or Breastfeeding?

  • Acetaminophen (Tylenol) may be acceptable for short-term use in all stages of pregnancy. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant before using acetaminophen.
  • Acetaminophen (Tylenol) passes into breast milk but is considered compatible with breastfeeding. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

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Reviewed on 1/11/2022
References
Image Source: iStock Images

https://reference.medscape.com/drug/tylenol-acetaminophen-343346

https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=1622f694-4d63-4c56-8737-fae31f0ecfb7

https://www.megforit.com/paracetamol-acetaminophen-tylenol-whats-the-difference/