Find patient medical information for Acetaminophen (Tylenol) on WebMD including its uses, side effects and safety, interactions, pictures, warnings, and user ratings Acetaminophen is used for the short-term relief of minor aches and pains due to colds, flu, headache, backache, arthritis, toothache, muscle pain, and menstruation. It also temporarily reduces fever. Outside of the United States, Canada, and Japan, acetaminophen is called paracetamol. Acetaminophen is an analgesic used to temporarily relieve minor aches and pains. Learn about side effects, drug interactions, dosages, warnings, and more. Acetaminophen (paracetamol), also commonly known as Tylenol, is the most commonly taken analgesic worldwide and is recommended as first-line therapy in pain conditions by the World Health Organization (WHO). It is also used for its antipyretic effects, helping to reduce fever. Acetaminophen is used to relieve mild to moderate pain and to reduce fever. Acetaminophen is in a class of medications called analgesics (pain relievers) and antipyretics (fever reducers). Acetaminophen is a popular over-the-counter medication that is commonly used to treat mild to moderate pain from various conditions, including headaches, dental pain, muscle aches, and menstrual cramps, as well as the discomfort associated with colds and sore throats. Paracetamol, [a] or acetaminophen, [b] is an analgesic and antipyretic agent used to treat fever and mild to moderate pain. [14][15] It is a widely available over-the-counter drug sold generically or under various brand names, including Tylenol and Panadol. It is not safe to use more than 4 grams (4,000 milligrams) of acetaminophen in one day (24 hours), as this may increase the risk for serious liver problems. For Tylenol® Extra Strength, the maximum dose is 3,000 milligrams per 24 hours. Detailed Acetaminophen dosage information for adults and children. Includes dosages for Pain and Fever; plus renal, liver and dialysis adjustments. This is a consumer webpage focused on the safe use of over-the-counter acetaminophen-containing products.