Acetaminophen Alert: How to Safely Take It in Cold, Flu, and Hangover Season

Acetaminophen reigns as one of the most popular painkillers ever, despite sometimes getting more bad press than Lindsay Lohan. Acetaminophen has faced down ongoing concerns about liver damage, major recalls for contamination problems, and disturbing links to childhood asthma, yet sales consistently rebound because acetaminophen does the job for millions who find it easier on their stomachs than other painkillers. It's also usually a good choice for kids. Just follow these pediatrician-recommended do's and don'ts.

Still, we've just gotten another reminder of how vital it is to take acetaminophen precisely.

The new alarm: "staggered overdoses." Unlike classic acetaminophen overdoses (taking too many pills at once), staggered ones occur if you take even slightly too much acetaminophen over several days. The effect can be lethal. In hospital studies, 37% of staggered-overdose cases died (versus 28% of classic overdoses), and survivors were more likely to have liver damage and brain and kidney problems.

While acetaminophen is quite safe when used correctly, it's also particularly easy to misuse during holidays because it combines very badly with alcohol. Your liver can't take it. So consider this a public service message from us YOU Docs: As we enter peak party season and peak cold-and-flu time, do not drink alcohol and take acetaminophen, whether for a hangover or a head cold. Here's what will safely help a hangover.

That's smart advice for all drugs but it's vital with acetaminophen. Keep in mind, too, that acetaminophen is in many, many other medications, from Theraflu to Percocet. Acknowledging the problem, Johnson & Johnson is reducing acetaminophen dosages in maximum strength Tylenol and various other formulations. Still, it's up to you to take it safely. Please, please do.

Check out this slideshow to find out if acetaminophen is an effective cold and flu remedy.

To find the best pain reliever for you, take this quick test.