Are You Taking The Right Dose?

This PSA is for older adults and young adults. Are you taking the right dose of over-the-counter medication?

We’re sharing vital information on why the right dose matters.

This post is brought to you by the Acetaminophen Awareness Coalition’s Know Your Dose campaign and The Motherhood. All opinions are my own.

PSA for Older Adults + Young Adults – Are You Taking The Right Dose?

This past year, we’ve adapted to many changes because of our country’s current status.

The kids are doing virtual school, everyone is working from home, and we’re finding new ways to spend time together as a family.

With all the adjustments and social distancing guidelines for doctor visits, we’ve been making more telehealth appointments and using over-the-counter meds. 

Using over-the-counter meds allows for the convenience of not needing a prescription but still comes with a few concerns, especially for children and older adults.

Many of our older relatives and neighbors are spending more time alone because of the pandemic, which may raise concerns about taking over-the-counter meds. 

What you need to know about taking the right dose of acetaminophen

Did you know acetaminophen is found in over 600 over-the-counter medications and prescription medications? Read on to see why it’s essential to take the right dosage of acetaminophen. 

This winter season, we have to worry not only about the virus, but also about colds and the flu.

Many families are relying on over-the-counter meds with acetaminophen in them to help combat those symptoms. Research shows 7 in 10 people use over-the-counter (OTC) medicines to treat cold and flu symptoms. 

The Acetaminophen Awareness Coalition (AAC) urges Americans to double-check medicine labels when treating cold and flu symptoms to avoid doubling up on acetaminophen. 

When it comes to taking medicine with acetaminophen, the set maximum daily dose is 4,000 mg in a 24-hour period for adults.

This mandate is set by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). 

Based on previous research, many Americans take more than the maximum daily acetaminophen dose, and that number increases by 24% during the cold and flu season. 

Based on recent data, adults aged 60+ are at a greater risk of accidentally taking too much acetaminophen. 

And since many of us are spending more time alone, especially older adults (60+), it’s more important than ever to remind our loved ones to take the right dose. Taking too much acetaminophen could cause liver damage. 

Even with teens, research has shown that teens and young adults (ages 12-29) are at a greater risk of taking too much acetaminophen.

As teens and young adults seek independence, it’s important that, as parents, we teach them to read the label before taking any medication. It’s also important to talk to them about the harm it can cause to their bodies by taking too much acetaminophen.

Here are a few tips to help you take medication with acetaminophen safely. 

• First, always READ and follow the label directions. Even if you already know what the label may say, it’s essential to reread it.
• While you’re reading the directions, check the ingredient list to see whether your medication contains acetaminophen.
• You also don’t want to take several medications with acetaminophen in it. This is why reading the label is essential. You do not want to make the mistake of taking double the amount of acetaminophen.
• If you are taking prescribed medication with acetaminophen in it, be sure to talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist before taking an over-the-counter medication. 
• And if you’re not sure about taking medications with acetaminophen, it’s always a good thing to talk to your healthcare provider. 

Is it safe to take acetaminophen?

Yes, acetaminophen is safe and effective in treating fever and pain. If you have concerns, talk to your doctor or your child’s pediatrician before giving the right dose. 

When used correctly, acetaminophen is safe. However, taking too much acetaminophen can lead to liver damage.

That is why we’re stressing the importance of reading the label and knowing the proper dose. Double-check your medication labels.

For more information and resources, visit Know Your Dose. 

Do you know of an older adult or young adult who may need this reminder? 

Check in with them and share the importance of taking the right dose of over-the-counter medication that contains acetaminophen.