FDA asks docs not to prescribe big dosages of acetaminophen

The FDA says there is no added benefit to combination drugs with more than 325 milligrams of acetaminophen that outweighs the added risk for liver injury. (Via WXMI)

The warning may be startling to anybody who has, for example, Tylenol Extra Strength in their medicine cabinet, which can contain 500 milligrams of the drug in each tablet. (Via CNN)

The FDA is focusing on acetaminophen combination drugs that require prescriptions like Tylenol with Codeine, Percocet and Vicodin. One of the most commonly used drugs in the country, acetaminophen helps with pain and fevers.

But FDA leaders say accidental overdoses account for nearly half of all acetaminophen-related liver failure in the U.S. (Via WJW-TV)

In a video posted Tuesday, the FDA noted there's no immediate danger to taking the combo drugs and to keep taking them as directed if your doctor already gave you a prescription.

This process actually started three years ago with the FDA asking drug manufacturers to stop making drugs combined with more than 325 milligrams of acetaminophen, and more than half complied.

But a press release Tuesday promised more action. "In the near future we intend to institute proceedings to withdraw approval of prescription combination drug products containing more than 325 mg." (Via FDA)

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