what does acetaminophen poisoning do
Acetaminophen poisoning can cause gastroenteritis within hours and hepatotoxicity 1 to 3 days after ingestion. Severity of hepatotoxicity after a single acute overdose is predicted by serum acetaminophen levels. Treatment is with N-acetylcysteine to prevent or minimize hepatotoxicity. Acetaminophen is contained in 100 products sold OTC. Products include many childrenâs preparations in liquid, tablet, and capsule form and many cough and cold preparations. Many prescription drugs also contain acetaminophen.
However, if taken in excess amounts, acetaminophen can cause life-threatening illness. 1  Acetaminophen is the active ingredient in Tylenol. 2  It is also found in many other over-the-counter medications people can buy at the drug store and in many prescription drugs.