Released: July 05, 2006

Study documents Tylenol liver toxicity

Source: By Denise Gellene, Los Angeles Times [San Francisco Chronicle]

The highest recommended dose of Extra Strength Tylenol sharply increased liver enzymes in healthy adults in a clinical study, an early sign of possible organ damage. Although overdoses of Tylenol can harm the liver, the study published today in the Journal of the American Medical Association is the first to spot hints of trouble in healthy people taking the pain reliever as directed.

“This study shows that even taking the amount on the package can be a problem for some people,” said Dr. William M. Lee of University of Texas Southwestern Medical School, who was not involved in the research.

Tylenol is the leading brand of acetaminophen, which is found in more than 200 types of pain relievers and cold remedies. An estimated 100 million Americans take acetaminophen safely each year.

Still, the over-the-counter drug is the leading cause of acute liver failure in the United States, and some researchers have called for increased regulation to prevent overdoses. In England, concerns about suicide through acetaminophen overdose led to restrictions on how many pills could be sold at one time.

Read Full Article: Study documents Tylenol liver toxicity