How It Works
Acetaminophen is an analgesic, which
helps relieve pain. (Analgesics do not affect inflammation as nonsteroidal
anti-inflammatory drugs, NSAIDs, do.)
Why It Is Used
Doctors use acetaminophen to treat
mild to moderate pain caused by
osteoarthritis.
If acetaminophen does not
relieve pain, or if joint tissue shows signs of inflammation, NSAIDs may be
used.
How Well It Works
Regular use of acetaminophen can
provide relief of mild to moderate pain caused by osteoarthritis.
Some studies have shown that acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory
drugs are equally effective for mild to moderate joint pain.1 Other studies suggest that NSAIDs are more effective than
acetaminophen, especially for more severe pain.2
Side Effects
All medicines have side effects. But many people don't feel the side effects, or they are able to deal with them. Ask your pharmacist about the side effects of each medicine you take. Side effects are also listed in the information that comes with your medicine.
Here are some important things to think about:
- Usually the benefits of the medicine are more important than any minor side effects.
- Side effects may go away after you take the medicine for a while.
- If side effects still bother you and you wonder if you should keep taking the medicine, call your doctor. He or she may be able to lower your dose or change your medicine. Do not suddenly quit taking your medicine unless your doctor tells you to.
Call 911 or other emergency services right away if you have:
- Trouble breathing.
- Hives.
- Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Call your doctor if you have:
- Yellowing of the eyes or skin.
- Stomach cramps or pain.
- Diarrhea.
- Blood in your stools, or you are vomiting blood.
See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects.
(Drug Reference is not available in all systems.)
What To Think About
Check the labels on all the other nonprescription and prescription medicines you take. Many medicines have acetaminophen. Do not take two or more medicines with acetaminophen in them unless your doctor told you to. Taking too much acetaminophen can be harmful. If you have questions about this, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.
Acetaminophen does not change the process of
cartilage breakdown that happens in
osteoarthritis.
Taking medicine
Medicine is one of the many tools your doctor has to treat a health problem. Taking medicine as your doctor suggests will improve your health and may prevent future problems. If you don't take your medicines properly, you may be putting your health (and perhaps your life) at risk.
There are many reasons why people have trouble taking their medicine. But in most cases, there is something you can do. For suggestions on how to work around common problems, see the topic Taking Medicines as Prescribed.
Advice for women
If you are pregnant, breast-feeding, or planning to get pregnant, do not use any medicines unless your doctor tells you to. Some medicines can harm your baby. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, herbs, and supplements. And make sure that all your doctors know that you are pregnant, breast-feeding, or planning to get pregnant.
Checkups
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.
Complete the new medication information form (PDF)(What is a PDF document?) to help you understand this medication.
References
Citations
- Subcommittee on Osteoarthritis Guidelines, American College of Rheumatology (2000). Recommendations for the medical management of osteoarthritis of the hip and knee. Arthritis and Rheumatism, 43(9): 1905–1915.
- Towheed TE, et al. (2006). Acetaminophen for
osteoarthritis. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews
(1). Oxford: Update Software.
Credits
| By | Healthwise Staff |
|---|
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine |
|---|
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Stanford M. Shoor, MD - Rheumatology |
|---|
| Last Revised | April 8, 2011 |
|---|
Subcommittee on Osteoarthritis Guidelines, American College of Rheumatology (2000). Recommendations for the medical management of osteoarthritis of the hip and knee. Arthritis and Rheumatism, 43(9): 1905–1915.
Towheed TE, et al. (2006). Acetaminophen for
osteoarthritis. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews
(1). Oxford: Update Software.
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