Federal data shows that a pain reliever most of us think of as safe, sends more than 75,000 Americans to the emergency room every year.

 

Acetaminophen, known by its brand name, Tylenol, can cause severe liver damage , in higher doses. Most  poisonings with the drug are considered to be accidental.

 

UPMC Altoona Director of Pharmacy Jill Breton says it’s easy to take too much of the drug

 

“It can be in so many different products as a combination medication, so you might not be aware that it’s in an over-the-counter product, but it might not be listed just on the surface,” she explains.

 

Breton says it’s important to look at the ingredients in the medication. If you’re unsure, ask your pharmacist.