New labelling standards for acetaminophen products
Posted Sep 15, 2016 12:28:49 PM.
Last Updated Sep 15, 2016 02:32:02 PM.
This article is more than 5 years old.
OTTAWA – Health Canada has released updated labelling standards for over-the-counter products containing acetaminophen to try to reduce the risk of liver damage.
The department says the changes will include clearer instructions on packages that encourage using the lowest possible dose, not exceeding the recommended daily amount of 4,000 mg for adults and not using products for more than five days for pain or three days for a fever.
The announcement follows a Health Canada safety review on acetaminophen in 2015.
Label changes are set to apply immediately for companies seeking to introduce new products on the Canadian market.
The department says companies that already have products on the market are expected to update labels within 18 months.
Acetaminophen is commonly used in a wide range of non-prescription and prescription drugs, including opioid painkillers.
What you should do (via Health Canada)
*Always read the product label and follow the instructions. Know if the product contains acetaminophen, the amount to take, when and how often to take it, and when to stop.
*Take the smallest amount that works for you. Never take more than the maximum daily dose. The amount you can safely take may be less than what is recommended on the label if you have risk factors like liver disease or drink three or more alcoholic drinks in a day.
*Take only one acetaminophen product at a time. Acetaminophen is in many products and you could accidentally take too much if you’re using more than one product at the same time.
*Talk to a health professional if you have any questions about acetaminophen.
