How risky is Tylenol?

by Tom Crann, Minnesota Public Radio

St. Paul, Minn. — A pain reliever that many of us have in our medicine cabinets is under scrutiny.

A new study shows that acetaminophen, a leading analgesic taken by some 100 million people in the U.S., may cause liver damage when taken in high doses. Acetaminophen is the main ingredient in Tylenol and some 200 other pain relief products.

Participants in the study took the equivalent of eight extra-strength Tylenol tablets each day for two weeks. Of those participants, 40 percent had test results that pointed to liver damage.

MPR's Tom Crann talked with our regular medical analyst, Dr. Jon Hallberg, about these findings.

Broadcast Dates

• All Things Considered, 07/11/2006, 5:21 p.m.