Acetaminophen injection is used to relieve mild to moderate pain and to reduce fever. Acetaminophen injection is also used in combination with opioid (narcotic) medications to relieve moderate to severe pain. Acetaminophen is in a class of medications called analgesics (pain relievers) and antipyretics (fever reducers). It works by changing the way the body senses pain and by cooling the body.
Acetaminophen injection comes as a solution (liquid) to be injected into a vein over 15 minutes. It is usually given every 4 to 6 hours as needed to relieve pain or reduce fever.
This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Before receiving acetaminophen injection,
Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.
Acetaminophen injection may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
Some side effects can be serious. If you experience any of these symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
Acetaminophen injection may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while receiving this medication.
If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online ( Web Site ) or by phone (1-800-332-1088).
Acetaminophen injection will probably be stored in the medical facility where you receive it. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions about storing your medication.
In case of overdose, call the poison control helpline at 1-800-222-1222. Information is also available online at Web Site. If the victim has collapsed, had a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be awakened, immediately call emergency services at 911.
If someone receives too much acetaminophen injection, get medical help immediately, even if the person does not have any symptoms. Symptoms of overdose may include the following:
Before having any laboratory test, tell your doctor and the laboratory personnel that you are receiving acetaminophen injection.
Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about acetaminophen injection.
It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.
AHFS® Consumer Medication Information. © Copyright, The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc., 7272 Wisconsin Avenue, Bethesda, Maryland. All Rights Reserved. Duplication for commercial use must be authorized by ASHP.
Selected Revisions: May 16, 2011.